55%
Plausible
The mass production timeline of the iPhone Fold is currently shrouded in mystery, where, on one hand, Apple has solved the design problems of its first foldable flagship, while, on the other, there are a truckload of problems being faced. According to the latest rumor, the setbacks are present, but this time, Apple is facing them with another component. As far as the crease-free display goes, the Cupertino firm has seemingly solved this obstacle, but others have persisted.
The iPhone Fold’s hinge is operating below Apple’s quality control standards, as the latest rumor mentions an unbearable “rattle” from this part
Where Weibo tipster Fixed-focus digital cameras has stated that the iPhone Fold has yet to enter trial production, Momentary Digital believes that the device is currently in the testing phase, but its hinge mechanism needs a great degree of tweaking before Apple is ready to move to the next phase. Apparently, the crease-free display will maintain its current smooth state for a long time, but the rumor doesn’t specify how many folds it takes for that unsettling line to appear.
The “rattling” noise emanating from the hinge when opening and closing the iPhone Fold is below Apple’s quality standards, hinting that there’s a mechanical issue that needs to be addressed, or else trial production may get delayed. Now, there’s no update on whether the iPhone Fold will be delayed by several months, but assuming that Apple cannot tackle these issues, the September keynote may only include the announcement, with the availability of the device happening much later.
At the very least, Apple’s supply chain would inspect every individual iPhone Fold unit, which would be a costly and time-consuming process, not to mention that the initial shipment volume will be significantly lower, creating a supply and demand disparity. The upside is that, with each device thoroughly inspected, there are fewer chances of a manufacturing mishap, which will increase the iPhone Fold’s longevity and improve the user experience.
As for when the iPhone 18 lineup and iPhone Fold are expected to enter mass production, the word around the street is that Apple intends to commence manufacturing in July, but with the ongoing problems, that timeline could be delayed.
News Source: Momentary Digital
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
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