Foxconn is rumored to be testing two new competing iPhone models. One of the models will be a flip variant reminiscent of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 and Motorola Razr, while the other will be reminiscent of the Samsung Galaxy Fold with a book-like design.
The testing takes place in Foxconn's factories in Shenzhen and revolves around testing the durability of the folding mechanism. The products being tested are far from finished, and it is mainly the phones' covers and probably screens that are being tested.
According to rumors, both variants must have passed the test
However, only one design will be realized when Apple is expected to launch its first foldable phone in September 2022. The fact that they are now testing two variants is part of an elimination process.
Must withstand 100,000 boards
It is the Chinese United Daily News that comes with the latest rumors. The website states that when testing a folding phone, it should withstand opening and closing 100,000 times. In comparison, laptops are tested 20,000 - 30,000 times.
Concept illustration: nl.letsgodigital.org
Apple's screens for the new folding phone come from Samsung and can possibly be folded both ways.
This is testified to in a patent called Folding Electronic Devices With Geared Hinges from April last year.
Apple holds tight
But Apple has many patents on foldable technology and what the folders that are in for testing now look like, we do not yet know.
If it gets the hinges mentioned in the patent, it can possibly be folded inwards like a book and outwards so that the screen covers the entire outside. Previously, it has been rumored that the phone will have two separate screens such as Microsoft Duo.
But now it may seem that at least one variant is a phone with an actual foldable screen.