Apple hawks $2k folding fondleslab
Another new form factor for devs to adapt to
Apple unveiled the iPhone Duo, a folding smartphone, during CEO John Ternus' maiden keynote address, hoping to breathe life into the underwhelming foldable phone market. According to Counterpoint Research, foldable phones accounted for only 1.6% of total smartphone sales last year. The Duo, described as "passport-sized" when folded and with a 7.6" screen when unfolded, aims to differentiate itself from other foldable smartphones, which critics have dubbed as "just two phones strapped together."
Apple claims its foldable screen is more durable than Samsung's previous models, using a "visco-elastic adhesive" and a titanium plate for reinforcement. The hinge mechanism, however, remains a concern, with Samsung's Galaxy Fold series facing similar durability issues. To address practical concerns, Apple has relocated iOS interface elements to the right side of the screen, maximizing vertical space for content.
However, this necessitates developers to adapt their apps using new APIs, similar to how developers had to adjust for Apple Intelligence and its Siri interface. While Apple maintains a wait-and-see approach to new technology, the Duo's ultimate success remains uncertain, possibly joining other failed Apple ventures like the Vision Pro in obscurity.
Written by urgent.news from The Register Science's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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- Apple hawks $2k folding fondleslab theregister.com
