The new patent is interesting not only from a technical point of view, it also once again confirms the company's interest in a new and promising market.
There is a lot of talk around the world today about foldable smartphones. Technology really interesting and promising. But, as is often the case with fundamentally new solutions, everything is still very “raw” and, as a result, problematic. Companies Samsung и Motorola have already experienced a variety of difficulties that a manufacturer of such devices may face. Interesting models Huawei also promised, but they have not yet appeared on sale. Microsoft decided to do without a fold altogether, replacing a single flexible screen. two ordinary.
It is natural that Apple also begins to consider the possibilities of this direction. But this company traditionally represents a limited line of devices, which means it cannot afford too bold experiments. After all, if the device turns out to be a failure, then this will cause too much damage to her reputation and financial situation. However, Apple's periodically obtained patents show that it is still working on a device with a folding screen.
So, the new patent describes an interesting solution that eliminates the main problem of folding screens - the crease at the fold, which ultimately leads to the main problems. Apple suggests using a special hinge that allows you to reduce the stress experienced by the screen at the fold. It does not just fold in half, but slightly arches at the same time, which reduces tension. In the open state, the parts of the hinge support the screen in such a way as to prevent it from sagging.
This is not the company's first patent related to folding screens. Previously, Apple has already shown quite interesting solutions. Most importantly, the new patent shows the potential interest of the company in this area. In 2020 folding iPhone we will not see for sure. But who knows, maybe such a device will appear in 2021.
