Chinese supply chain leaker Fixed Focus Digital (Weibo: 定焦数码) has provided the latest update on Apple’s first foldable iPhone, confirming that the device will use a Liquidmetal hinge.
According to the post, the project is advancing quickly, and prototype units have already been shipped to carriers worldwide for network and compatibility testing — a clear sign that the foldable iPhone (often called the “iPhone Ultra” or iPhone Fold) is moving deeper into the validation phase.
Why Liquidmetal for the Hinge?
Liquidmetal is an amorphous alloy (also known as metallic glass) known for its exceptional strength, elasticity, corrosion resistance, and ability to be precisely molded. Apple has held a long-term relationship with Liquidmetal Technologies and has used the material in small components like SIM ejector tools for years. Deploying it in the hinge represents a major step-up — one that could deliver superior durability for hundreds of thousands of folding cycles while helping minimize screen creasing.
This aligns with earlier reports from Ming-Chi Kuo and others, who highlighted Liquidmetal’s potential advantages over traditional titanium or steel hinges in terms of rigidity, fatigue resistance, and overall premium feel.
Current Status and Timeline
• The confirmation that the Liquidmetal hinge solution has been selected comes after periods of uncertainty, with Apple reportedly evaluating multiple hinge materials.
• Prototypes reaching global carriers suggests the device has passed key internal reviews and is progressing toward mass production.
• Expected launch: September 2026, likely alongside the iPhone 18 Pro series.
Other recent rumors point to a near-crease-free folding experience, vapor chamber cooling, an A20-series chip, side-mounted Touch ID, and a premium price tag starting near $2,000.
MacDailyNews Take: This development positions Apple’s foldable entry as a heavily engineered device focused on long-term reliability rather than rushing to market. While leaker accuracy varies, the Liquidmetal hinge detail has been consistently reported across multiple sources for some time.
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