Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolution and significance of hinge technology in foldable smartphones, highlighting the different types of hinges, their advantages and disadvantages, and the impact of material innovations on performance and cost [2][5][6]. Industry Perspective - Foldable hinge technology has undergone multiple iterations since the first commercial foldable phone was launched in 2019, leading to various technical routes and design philosophies [2]. - The main types of hinge technology include U-shaped hinges, waterdrop hinges, and other types, each with unique characteristics affecting crease control, thickness, cost, and durability [2]. U-Shaped Hinge - The U-shaped hinge, exemplified by the Samsung Galaxy Fold series, is a simpler and cost-effective design but suffers from significant drawbacks such as visible creases and potential screen damage over time [3]. - This hinge design has been criticized for allowing dust ingress and causing aesthetic issues due to gaps when closed [3]. Waterdrop Hinge - The waterdrop hinge, commonly used by domestic manufacturers like OPPO and Huawei, allows for a larger bending radius, reducing screen creases and providing a seamless closure [4]. - While offering advantages such as shallower creases and improved user experience, the complexity of the waterdrop hinge increases production costs and device thickness [4]. Evolution of Hinge Technology - The evolution of hinge technology reflects the transition of foldable smartphones from being merely functional to providing a better user experience, with advancements in materials and structural design [5]. - The latest innovation is Huawei's "Tiangong Hinge System," which supports both inward and outward folding, marking a new stage in hinge technology development [5]. Material Innovations - The performance of foldable hinges is closely tied to material selection, with advancements from traditional stainless steel to revolutionary liquid metal materials enhancing strength and fatigue resistance [6]. - Metal Injection Molding (MIM) is the mainstream choice for hinge manufacturing, while liquid metal offers superior properties, making it ideal for components requiring repeated folding [6]. Market Dynamics - The global foldable hinge market is projected to exceed $900 million in 2024, with a growth rate of nearly 5% [7]. - The introduction of tri-fold smartphones increases the number of required hinges, suggesting further market expansion [7]. - The market is characterized by high technical barriers, dense patent layouts, and a trend towards consolidation among leading companies [7]. Regional Distribution - Hinge manufacturers are primarily located in China and South Korea, with the U.S. excelling in design but less involved in manufacturing [8]. - Chinese companies are increasingly competitive across the entire supply chain, from materials to design and manufacturing [8]. Cost Structure - Hinges represent a significant incremental cost in foldable smartphones, with individual costs ranging from 800 to 1200 yuan, influenced by material choices and manufacturing complexity [8]. - Reducing hinge costs is crucial for the broader adoption of foldable smartphones, with potential improvements through material substitution and process enhancements [8]. Challenges in the Industry - The industry faces challenges such as reliance on foreign high-end materials and increasing competition, necessitating ongoing R&D investment [9]. - However, advancements in MIM technology and liquid metal by Chinese firms are enhancing the self-sufficiency of the supply chain [9]. Market Forecast - The global foldable hinge module market is expected to reach $1.82 billion by 2031, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.8% [10].

Group 1 - The core viewpoint is that foldable smartphones represent a significant opportunity in the smartphone market, akin to the early days of the internet, with expectations of a 20% market share in China's high-end segment by 2025 [1][2][30] - The foldable smartphone market is expected to experience a slowdown from 2024 to 2025 but is projected to see significant growth again by 2026, particularly with Apple's anticipated entry into the foldable market [1][2][30] - Current foldable devices have improved durability, with mainstream models offering over 300,000 folds and IPX8 water resistance, enhancing their usability [1][4] Group 2 - Foldable smartphones provide a unique user experience, especially for multitasking and immersive entertainment, with larger screens facilitating better document handling and media consumption [4][5] - However, there are concerns regarding the long-term viability of foldable phones as replacements for traditional smartphones, particularly regarding user experience and practicality [2][3][16] - The foldable smartphone segment is seen as a niche market, catering to specific user needs for productivity, entertainment, and fashion, rather than a universal solution for all consumers [26][30] Group 3 - Key challenges for foldable smartphones include durability issues, battery life limitations, weight, camera specifications, and software optimization, which need to be addressed for broader adoption [9][11][12][13][14] - The user experience is critical, with many users finding the transition between screens cumbersome, leading to a preference for traditional devices in everyday scenarios [20][21][22] - The potential introduction of foldable devices by major players like Apple could signify a shift in the company's innovation strategy, moving towards a more stable and less disruptive approach [30][31][32]