In the Android world, multiple smartphone brands are making foldable phones. Samsung, Motorola and OPPO are some of the big names in this category. Speaking of Apple, there has been a flurry of rumors about a foldable iPhone, but nothing concrete has surfaced online. Now, the latest patent leak shows Apple’s foldable iPhone with an innovative hinge mechanism.
Apple’s patent filed with the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) last October has surfaced online (via openly dark), introduces a new hinge design for the foldable iPhone. The design of the foldable iPhone is reminiscent of a clam that folds in an upside-down style similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series.
However, the new hinge mechanism Apple is rumored to be considering for its foldable iPhone has a greater range of motion. According to the leaked patent images, the hinge allows the device to fold in both directions, i.e. in and out. It will be a unique device in the market if it debuts. It should be noted that there were rumors that a foldable iPhone could launch in 2026.
According to the leaked patent images, the folding mechanism applies to a wide range of devices including phones, tablets, laptops and other mobile devices. But the patent seemingly hints that if Apple were to bring a foldable iPhone, then they could consider a clamshell design over a foldable bow-like style for their first foldable iPhone.
The patent image also shows that the spindle will come with synchronizing gear plates with interlocking teeth, allowing for “synchronized rotary motion between the left and right halves of the spindle.”
Note that a patent does not authorize or guarantee product release. Apple, like other manufacturers, registers several patents every year. But only a small part of these patents are converted into a real product. So, a foldable iPhone may be launched in the future, or it may remain a patent for some time. It should be noted that there were rumors that a foldable iPhone could launch in 2026.
Tell us what you think about a foldable iPhone, and would you consider a foldable iPhone if it ever launches?