18英寸折叠显示技术的开发，已被证实尤为复杂且成本高昂，致使产品预估售价达到13英寸iPad Pro的 三倍左右。与Pro系列一致，这款折叠平板将采用OLED技术。该显示技术不仅能呈现更鲜艳的色彩， 还能实现更纤薄的屏幕形态。 然而，工程师们同时对现有折叠iPad原型机的重量表示担忧。目前市售的iPad Pro重量介于450克到590 克之间，而折叠产品的测试机型重量已达1590克，这与MacBook Pro的重量基本持平。 参与项目的苹果人员透露，折叠iPad与华为今年5月发布的MateBook Fold（18英寸折叠平板）颇为相 似。但值得注意的是，华为这款仅在中国市场销售的产品，重量比苹果当前原型机轻约450克，售价约 3400美元。 10月22日消息，苹果公司意图通过搭载巨型折叠屏来重塑iPad品类的努力，正面临开发阻力，这可能将 导致其计划中的产品发布推迟。 据知情人士透露，这款预估售价3000美元的设备已研发数年，苹果原定目标是在2028年发布。然而，由 于在重量、功能及显示技术方面遭遇工程挑战，其正式亮相时间可能将推迟至2029年或更晚。 知情人士还表示，苹果正与三星显示公司合作，共同开发这款设 ...

Core Viewpoint - Apple's stock price experienced a significant increase of 3.81% on September 3, reaching its highest point since March 2025, driven by positive news in the tech sector and a favorable antitrust ruling for Google [1][2] Group 1: Financial Performance and Market Position - The recent antitrust ruling allows Google to continue sharing data with partners like Apple, securing a revenue stream for Apple as Google pays hundreds of millions annually to maintain its search engine as the default on Apple devices [1] - Despite concerns over U.S. economic slowdown and tariffs, Apple may raise prices on new iPhone models to offset increased costs, leveraging its brand strength and product innovation to maintain consumer interest [2] Group 2: Innovation and Product Strategy - Apple plans to launch its first foldable iPhone in 2026 and a foldable iPad two years later, utilizing Corning's exclusive ultra-thin glass cover solution, which is expected to create a new market trend [1] - The entry of Apple into the foldable device market is anticipated to intensify competition, particularly against established players like Samsung, as well as emerging competitors such as Huawei and Xiaomi [1]

Core Insights - The article discusses the anticipated growth of the foldable smartphone market, driven by Apple's expected entry in the second half of 2026, which is projected to increase the penetration rate of foldable phones from 1.6% in 2025 to over 3% by 2027 [2]. Group 1: Foldable Smartphone Market - The foldable smartphone hinge market is expected to reach a value of $1.2 billion by 2025, with the hinge cost accounting for approximately 5% to 8% of the bill of materials (BOM) for each device [3]. - Samsung has adopted a droplet hinge design in its Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Flip series starting in 2023, enhancing foldability and durability while reducing crease visibility, which has become a mainstream design in the industry [3]. - The industry is moving towards modular designs and standardization to reduce costs and improve yield rates, which will shift hinges from traditional material processing to system module supply [3][4]. Group 2: Apple’s Potential Impact - Apple is considering the use of liquid metal for structural components in its foldable devices, aiming to leverage the material's properties for lightweight and high toughness [5]. - The entry of Apple into the foldable smartphone market is expected to signal a maturation of the segment, with competition shifting towards manufacturing efficiency, cost control, and supply chain integration [5]. - Suppliers that can manage technology, capacity, and price flexibility will be key beneficiaries in the upcoming growth cycle as the market evolves [5].

Group 1 - The core viewpoint is that the introduction of foldable products by Apple in the second half of 2026 is expected to increase the penetration rate of foldable phones from 1.6% in 2025 to over 3% by 2027, driven by advancements in hinge technology and design [1] - The foldable phone hinge market is projected to reach a value of $1.2 billion by 2025, with Samsung adopting a water-drop hinge design in its Galaxy Z Fold5 and Flip series to enhance durability and reduce crease visibility [2] - The industry is moving towards modular designs and standardization to reduce costs and improve yield rates, with suppliers like New Power and Amphenol investing in high-precision components to adapt to the water-drop hinge trend [2] Group 2 - Apple is considering the use of liquid metal as a structural material for its foldable devices, which could lead to a significant upgrade in the supply chain if combined with 3D printing and composite materials [3] - Apple typically adopts an "early majority" strategy, entering the foldable phone market once it stabilizes, aiming to capture market share through differentiation while minimizing risks and R&D costs [3] - The entry of Apple into the foldable phone market signifies a shift towards mature applications, where competition will focus on manufacturing efficiency, cost control, and supply chain integration [3]