Apple is “actively testing” a 9-inch foldable device, but it won’t be taking on Samsung with a foldable iPhone until 2025 at the earliest, one analyst claims.
The company’s “priority order” for foldables is said to be medium, large and then small devices. Its current prototype is being used to test new technologies and may not be indicative of an upcoming product.
Apple ‘actively testing’ 9-inch foldable
Apple has begun collaborating with LG on new flexible OLED panels for future devices, according to an earlier report. Now one analyst, who has proven reliable in the past, claims it already has a 9-inch foldable in testing.
However, Ming-Chi Kuo of TF International Securities warns that despite his earlier prediction that a foldable iPhone could come in 2024, it is now looking highly unlikely that we’ll see it before 2025.
Foldable iPhone still years away
“I expected Apple to launch a foldable iPhone as soon as 2024 in my reports last year, but now it’s clear this prediction needs to be revised,” Kuo tweeted. “I predict Apple may launch its first foldable product in 2025 at the earliest.”
It’s not yet clear whether that device will be a “hybrid of iPad and iPhone,” like the Samsung Galaxy Fold lineup — or just a foldable iPhone, like the Galaxy Flip. Kuo’s latest claims suggest not even Apple is sure of that yet.
Although a 9-inch device is said to be in testing within the walls of Cupertino, that may have been built primarily to “verify key technologies,” Kuo said. “It may not be the final product spec.”
Apple’s priority for foldables
What is a little clearer, according to Kuo, is Apple’s priority order for foldables. He believes the company will focus on medium-sized devices first, followed by large and then small units. That suggests a foldable iPad could come first.
Whatever the case may be, those waiting for Apple’s first foldable gadget have plenty of time left to save up for it, apparently.
