Apple is said to be under pressure to deliver a foldable iPhone that can compete with upcoming devices from the likes of Samsung and Huawei.
Apple “cannot afford to ignore” the foldable phone trend, according to a new report. If the company doesn’t catch up quickly, industry observers warn Cupertino could lose its reputation as being “a leader of innovation.”
While some segment of the population undoubtedly sees the rise of folding phones as yet another indication Apple is falling behind, it’s not as simple as that. In fact, rushing out a folding phone runs counter to Cupertino’s well-established M.O.
Apple typically shies away from releasing products designed primarily to compete with hot new rivals. If it can’t find a way to significantly improve upon existing devices and trends, the company usually doesn’t bother.
Apple needs to respond to foldable phones
Still, some say Apple cannot ignore foldable phones — especially with demand for the iPhone falling faster than ever before.
“The multiple releases of foldable models by Android-based handset vendors could undermine Apple’s status as being a leader of innovation in the field,” reports Digitimes, citing “industry observers.”
“Apple apparently cannot afford to ignore this emerging trend and must be keen on developing foldable models.”
Sales of foldable phones are expected to be limited initially. Their high price tags and somewhat imperfect technology probably will dissuade consumers from upgrading in large numbers for now.
But many see foldable phones as a big opportunity for growth in the future. And that’s certainly something Apple needs as iPhone sales slow down.
Apple investigates foldable iPhone
Apple certainly doesn’t appear to be ignoring the foldable phone trend, however.
Recent rumors suggest the company is indeed developing a foldable iPhone. Apple even reportedly received foldable display samples from Samsung. Those displays are said to be flexible OLED panels that measure 7.2 inches.
Apple also holds patents on numerous technologies for foldable devices.
It’s likely to be some time before Apple releases a foldable phone, though. The foldable handsets we’ve seen so far look more like prototypes than final products. And concerns persist about their designs and technologies.
Until Apple can eliminate those concerns and deliver a faultless product, it’s highly unlikely the company will attempt to compete.
