Someone 3D-Printed the iPhone Fold and It Actually Makes Sense

MacRumors has shared an early hands-on look at a dummy model of Apple’s long-rumoured foldable iPhone, giving a better idea of what the device could look and feel like if current leaks are accurate.

The model is not a real Apple product. It is a 3D-printed mockup created by a designer using recent rumours about the foldable iPhone’s size and shape. Still, it offers one of the clearest previews so far of Apple’s possible direction.

According to current reports, the foldable iPhone could feature a 5.4-inch display when closed and expand to around 7.6 to 7.7 inches when unfolded. When folded, the phone looks shorter and wider than Samsung’s Galaxy Fold, while opening it gives a device closer in feel to an iPad mini.

The dummy highlights several design ideas Apple is reportedly considering:

• A wider outer display instead of a tall, narrow screen
• A tablet-style inner display designed for multitasking
• A two-camera system with wide and ultrawide lenses
• A full-width camera bar on the back, similar to current iPhones
• A side power button that may include Touch ID instead of Face ID

Reports suggest Apple is focusing heavily on durability, especially the hinge and inner display. Analysts say Apple may use a mix of titanium, stainless steel, or aluminum for the frame and hinge. Some reports also claim Apple is using liquid metal in the hinge to reduce wear and help eliminate the visible crease found on most foldable phones.

The unfolded screen is said to be nearly crease-free, thanks to a metal plate that helps manage stress when the display bends. This is one reason Apple may have waited longer than rivals to enter the foldable phone market.

Software will be just as important as hardware. The unfolded display is expected to use a near 4:3 aspect ratio, which could allow Apple to bring iPad-style multitasking features to the foldable iPhone. How Apple blends iOS and iPadOS features is still unknown.

Pricing is expected to be high, so start saving those pennies. Current estimates place the foldable iPhone between $2,000 US ($2737 CAD) and $2,500 US ($3422 CAD), potentially making it the most expensive iPhone ever (and on the verge of insanity pricing). Some analysts believe improved manufacturing efficiency could lower costs, but it is unclear whether that would reduce the final retail price.