🧠 Food for thought

Implications, context, and why it matters.

Apple’s foldable hinges on a specialized supply chain

• Apple is said to use high-strength liquid metal alloys in the hinge to improve durability. It is also trying to cut hinge manufacturing costs to $70 to $80 per unit 1.
• Shin Zu Shing (a manufacturer of precision metal components) and Amphenol (a large maker of electronic connectors and interconnect systems) are tied to hinge part production 2.
• Samsung Display is seen as the main OLED panel supplier. Apple is said to add its own technology for layer structure, materials, and lamination to aim for a rumored “crease-free” look 2.
• Lens Technology (a supplier known for smartphone glass and protective covers) is also involved. The Economic Times wrote that it raised HK$610 million (US$77.7 million) to expand foldable-screen work amid analyst speculation about Apple-related demand 3.

Apple’s entry could buoy a slowing foldables market

• Apple is expected to launch in 2026 as foldable-phone growth cools. Counterpoint (a market-research firm that tracks smartphone shipments) projects 2.9% shipment growth in 2024 and a possible single-digit decline in 2025 4.
• Foldable shipments are about 16 million units in 2024. Apple could shift the category if it ships at scale, though some supply-chain sources warn early volume may stay small 4.
• Coverage casts Apple as waiting until the technology can support broader adoption. The company is said to focus on durability and a seamless software experience to address issues that have limited competitors 5.
• Economic Daily News, cited by TrendForce (a market-research firm focused on electronics supply chains), says Apple increased inventory preparations by about 20% above the original target 6.