Apple is widely expected to enter the foldable smartphone segment with its first-ever foldable iPhone, commonly referred to as the iPhone Fold. Although the company has not officially confirmed any details about its 2026 smartphone lineup, leaks and reports continue to shed light on what the device might offer. One of the latest rumours suggests that Apple could take a different approach to hinge construction compared to existing foldable phones on the market.
According to recent leaks, Apple has been experimenting with alternative materials for foldable components for over a decade. This long-term research may now be paying off, as the iPhone Fold is said to feature a hinge design that prioritizes durability and longevity—two areas where foldable devices have traditionally faced criticism.
Tipster @yeux1122, posting on the South Korean platform Naver, claims that Apple plans to use liquid metal for the hinge mechanism of the iPhone Fold. This material is believed to offer superior strength and flexibility, potentially reducing wear at the folding point and improving resistance to repeated opening and closing over time. The use of liquid metal could also help minimize visible creasing on the display by distributing stress more evenly.
Beyond the hinge, the rest of the iPhone Fold’s chassis is expected to incorporate titanium, similar to recent Pro models. However, the leak suggests Apple may employ an enhanced version of the material by refining the alloy composition and manufacturing process. These changes could result in a stronger yet lighter frame, aligning with Apple’s focus on premium build quality while keeping the overall device weight in check.