Apple’s iPhone Fold hinge could be cheaper than expected

The way the hinge of the iPhone Fold is constructed could save Apple a lot when it produces its long-rumored foldable device, with analyst Ming-Chi Kuo expecting the cost to be about $20 to $40 lower than current expectations.

The main feature of the long-rumored iPhone Fold is going to be its foldable nature, and therefore the hinge mechanism it uses. While the screen’s ability to deal with flexing between open and closed states is key, it requires the support of a solidly built and perfectly functional hinge mechanism.

The hinge will require a lot of work to get right, and that could mean a high cost of production. However, in a note shared by analyst Ming-Chi Kuo on Sunday, it may not be as expensive as the market believes it will be.

According to Kuo, when the hinge hits mass production, the average production cost for it will be around $70 to $80 apiece. Kuo believes the cost per unit will drop considerably compared to the current market expectation of $100 to $120, or even higher.

Production duties

Actually producing the hinge will fall to two companies. Foxconn, a long-time member of Apple’s supply chain, will work with Shin Zu Shing on a joint venture to make the hinge.

The joint venture has managed to secure a sizable share of hinge orders from Apple, at about 65% of the total order. The remainder is being picked up by Amphenol.

Depending on the success of the model, a third manufacturer may step in. Luxshare is thought to be a potential addition to the roster, but not until after 2027.

Luxshare’s interest may be a further good sign for Apple. The additional competition could help drive the cost of the hinge further down, increasing profits for Apple by cutting production costs.

Strength is needed

Previous rumors have proposed that the iPhone Fold could effectively resemble two iPhone Air units attached to a hinge. Just like the ultra-thin smartphone, Apple could employ titanium and aluminum in the frame to keep it thin and strong.

Kuo has previously proposed a stainless steel frame with a liquid metal hinge. However, this will probably result in a much heavier smartphone.

As for whether the iPhone Fold will actually make it to market, Kuo doesn’t offer any further hint on its prospects. The model has repeatedly been just a year away from release since 2019, and there are relatively few reasons to believe that the situation has improved.