Folding iPhone might land in 2020

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Apple wants to make iPhones that double as iPads.
Photo: Ste Smith

Your next iPhone could soon double as an iPad.

According to the latest Apple rumor, the company plans to launch a folding iPhone in the next two years, bringing Westworld-style tablets to the real world.

Bank of America analyst Wamsi Mohan told investors in a note today that supply chain checks show Apple plans to launch the radically different design in 2020. After meeting with several Apple suppliers in Asia, Mohan is convinced the long-rumored device is nearly ready.

We expect the iPhones this fall to be largely unchanged for the OLED versions although size changes have proved to be a catalyst in the past,” wrote Mohan. “Our checks also suggest that Apple is working with suppliers on a foldable phone (that potentially could double up as a tablet) for launch in 2020.”

A foldable iPhone has been speculated for over a year now. Samsung already showed off a concept of a folding tablet screen but a real product still hasn’t hit the market.

Launching a folding iPhone by 2020 would be a huge feat. Most concepts still look bulky and aren’t more appealing than a traditional smartphone. Apple would have to innovate ways to allow the CPU, battery and other components to bend. Or invent a sleek way to connect them via flex cables at the hinge.

Apple’s 2018 lineup of iPhones are expected to be revealed this fall. OLED displays and Face ID will likely be added to at least two of the new models.

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