Foldable Apple phone might replace iPad Mini

Apple could release a foldable phone with a 7-inch to 8-inch screen around the next two to three years to replace its iPad Mini device.

Korean media TheLec reported that Apple has an unreleased 7-inch and 8-inch prototype of foldable products that can potentially replace the iPad Mini tablet. iPad mini is the only 8.3-inch tablet device among other offerings from the tech company.

The new rumor contradicts the news that Apple is working on a new OLED screen project for the upcoming iPad Mini model.

The report suggests that Samsung Display and LG Display are the key display suppliers for foldable screens for Apple. These two South Korean firms already sent display samples for the new foldable iPhone (tentatively).

Samsung is expected to produce the foldable panel from the 6th generation A3 or A4 OLED line that produces OLED panels for iPhones.

Last year, Samsung Group also adjusted the Display production unit to ease the development for customers and produce according to the market demand.

It’s expected that Samsung will mass-produce 7 to 8-inch foldable panels by 2026, while LG will produce them in the following year. To pursue a diverse supply chain, Apple will order foldable panels from both Samsung and LG using.

Some of these required components are Ultrathin Glass (UTG), a foldable phone over panel, and a foldable hinge. These requirements are likely to change based on the uncertainty in the design and specifications of the new Apple foldable.

Still, none of this information is confirmed by Apple but the company could pull something in its smartphone segment as its demand for iPhones is forecast to fall this year.

(source –  TheLec)