iPhone Fold: Apple's First Foldable to Feature a 3D-Printed Hinge! What Will Be the Benefit?

There is considerable excitement surrounding Apple's first foldable device, with everyone eager to uncover the latest details regarding the company's inaugural foldable phone. A new piece of information has now surfaced regarding this device, suggesting that the handset could potentially be marketed under the name "iPhone Ultra." This model is expected to be unveiled later this year, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models. Although Apple has not yet officially confirmed the existence of the handset, a recent rumor originating from China sheds light on its build quality. It is being reported that the device will utilize 3D printing technology for its hinge mechanism.

**Utilization of 3D Printing**
This information comes courtesy of a Weibo post by tipster "Fixed Focus Digital." According to the tipster, the use of 3D-printed materials for the hinge could help minimize the visibility of the display crease. The company already employs 3D-printed cases for the Apple Watch, while the USB-C port on the iPhone Air was also manufactured using this very technology. If these leaks prove accurate, Apple would become the latest brand to incorporate 3D-printed materials into its hinge design. Notably, Oppo recently utilized 3D-printed polymers to fill the space beneath the crease on its latest foldable device, the Find N6. This approach enabled the company to create what it describes as a "Zero-Feel Crease" display.

The "iPhone Fold" (or "iPhone Ultra") may feature a dual-layer UTG (Ultra-Thin Glass) and UFG (Ultra-Flexible Glass) design, wherein the display panel is sandwiched between two thin sheets of glass. This configuration prevents the screen from making direct contact with the hinge during the folding process, thereby reducing mechanical stress on the panel and potentially enhancing its long-term durability.

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