Apple filed a new patent in 2023 for a hinge for foldable phones and tablets. This time, the technology patented by the big tech company allows the devices to be opened in both directions — leaving a larger screen exposed. Apple has filed for foldable devices since 2016, but this technology differs from previous patents.
In the document description, Apple explains that the hinge can be folded inwards (closing a screen) or outwards, which would keep the larger display all the way out. This technology has already been presented by other manufacturers in notebook/foldable type foldables, but it only debuted with the Honor V Purse (which is practically a concept phone) and the Huawei Mate X. In this format of screen folding outwards, an external display with a 9:16 aspect ratio is not necessary.
Patent indicates use on iPhones, Macs and iPads
Apple explains in the patent (number 20240147644) that this registered technology can be used for cell phones, notebooks and tablets. In other words, the big tech is indicating that these hinges are compatible with its electronics: iPhones, Macs and iPads.
In the document image, Apple shows a device that looks like a cell phone. Given the device’s proportions, the company seems to be exemplifying its use in a flip smartphone. However, this does not mean that it is working on an iPhone Flip to rival Samsung.
It’s common for companies to file patents as a guarantee — or to hold back the technological advances of their rivals. Apple, Samsung, Microsoft and other big tech companies often file several patents per year, but few patents are actually issued. In other cases, it simply takes a long time for the registered technologies to be implemented.
According to market analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and various rumors, big tech is more interested in launching a foldable iPad to debut in this segment. Apple’s plan would be to serve the public that wants a product that falls between the tablet and notebook format (hi, iPad Pro with M4 chip ), requiring larger screens than the Galaxy Z Fold 5, for example.
With information from: Phone Arena, Android Headlines and Patently Apple.
