[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Haeyoung] Apple has obtained a patent for a 'foldable' device. Attention is focused on whether foldable iPhones and iPads will be released.
According to U.S. local media on the 15th (local time), Apple acquired a patent on the 14th for technology that allows users to perform functions by touching not only the screen but also various parts of the device.
The patent relates to features that enable users to control the camera by touching the side of the device or adjust the volume by moving their fingers up and down on the device's side. Among these is a design for a foldable phone or tablet PC with a wraparound screen. A wraparound screen refers to a type of display technology applied not only to the front but also to the entire device, allowing information to be viewed through the back and sides. Accordingly, there is speculation that Apple may apply the foldable method to devices such as the iPhone or iPad.
Previously, companies including Samsung Electronics and Chinese manufacturers have released foldable phones. However, Apple has not yet introduced a foldable device. The market expects Apple to apply the foldable method to the iPad. Guo Mingqi, an Apple analyst at TF Securities, predicted last month that Apple would release a foldable iPad in 2024. It is anticipated that after observing market reactions, Apple will release a foldable iPhone.
Ben Wood, Chief Analyst at CCS Insight, said, "It is not the right time for Apple to make a foldable iPhone now," and predicted, "Apple will probably dip its toes into foldable iPads."
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