UBS has claimed in an investor note that Apple is reportedly working on folding devices. The report indicates that a folding iPhone is already in the works, but Apple might initially launch a folding iPad. Additionally, the report notes that a folding device from Apple is more likely to release in 2021, but it could also arrive early in 2020.
According to UBS, Samsung dominates intellectual property filings for folding display and device technologies. However, Apple has been continuously working on the technology for folding display. UBS added that Apple might launch a folding device as early as next year, though 2021 seems more likely for now. Furthermore, UBS suggests that Apple’s first folding device will more likely be an iPad than the iPhone.
The report, however, notes that pricing would be a significant hurdle which shouldn’t come as a surprise. Customers are willing to shell out a little extra for folding devices, but not the outrageous $2000 price tag of the Samsung Galaxy Fold.
“The survey indicates greater willingness to pay a premium ($600) and generally higher interest among Apple buyers for foldable products. This suggests that the industry will need to work to reduce costs for foldable mobile devices further to take off as a products category,” said UBS.
UBS also indicates that the concept of a folding phone held a much higher appeal for more than a third of customers. That said, Apple will likely adopt a different approach than Samsung. The Korean brand didn’t have the start they might’ve have hoped for with the launch of the Galaxy Fold.
The device was earlier set for a release in April; however, the launch was pushed back due to screen issues found by reviewers. Samsung now claims it has fixed such problems and announced the handset would go on sale in September.
