在折叠的屏幕里， 重新丈量生活。 一个新事物的诞生，往往伴随着误解的问世。 2007年，初代iPhone问世。十多年过去，大多数人或许只记得这部手机如何开启了移动互联网的繁荣，但是鲜有人记得，这部被全世界热捧的智能手机在 面世之初迎来了质疑。 在那样一个由物理键盘统治的智能手机时代，微软CEO史蒂夫·鲍尔默嘲讽它「没法吸引商务用户，是个失败产品」；彭博社评论员公开断言「这是华而 不实的小众玩具」。 比iPhone更晚一点诞生的折叠屏手机，也是如此。 它并未在一片欢呼声中惊艳亮相，而是在质疑声中跌跌撞撞起步。2019年，某厂商抢先发布的第一款折叠屏手机便遭遇了滑铁卢。屏幕隆起、闪屏、失 灵、破裂等折叠技术不成熟带来的故障，引发了「折叠屏无用论」的质疑。 但是六年过去，根据IDC的数据显示，当下中国折叠屏市场的2024年出货量已经超越千万台规模，就连姗姗来迟的苹果也被多家机构预测在2026年推出自 己的折叠屏，无法否认的是： 曾被视作「小众猎奇」的实验性形态，如今正稳稳站上主流品类的位置。 折叠屏之所以能从「无用论」反转，并不是一种偶然，而是反映了整个数字时代用户对于终端形态的需求变迁。无论是互联网带来的信息密度 ...

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].