Apple's WWDC 2024 event focused on software without much mention of any hardware.
However, the company is secretly developing at least two foldable devices, including a 20.3-inch MacBook that is said to be nearing completion, and a 7.9-inch folding iPhone .
The interesting point about the folding screen iPhone is that the product will have a fold-out design similar to the Huawei Mate Xs 2, if the latest report from analyst Jeff Pu is accurate. This means a single screen covers the front and back of the device when folded and straightens out into a flat screen when unfolded.
Huawei Mate Xs 2 is an idea for a 7.9-inch folding screen iPhone design.
Mr. Pu hopes this folding iPhone will be launched by the end of 2026, although other analysts set a launch date of 2027. Meanwhile, the 20.3-inch MacBook with a larger folding screen seems Likely to launch in 2025. This product is likened to the ThinkPad X1 Fold with a screen that folds inwards and a wireless keyboard that can be stored between the two halves when the device is folded.
The advantage of a fold-out screen is that there is no need for an additional screen, which means no additional weight, thickness or cost. With most of the back covered by the display, this is useful for personalization or taking selfies with the main camera. However, the disadvantage of this design is that the folding screen is the most vulnerable component of the device but is always exposed.
The ThinkPad X1 Fold design is an idea for the 20.3-inch MacBook.
The inward-folding design provides flexible screen protection and can also be used when folded at a 90° angle or more for a laptop-like experience. It's unclear why the development of the foldable MacBook is progressing faster than the foldable iPhone, but the complex fold-out design could be the reason behind that.