Tipster claims foldable iPhone production faces delays over hinge problems – Firstpost
 "Tipster claims foldable iPhone production faces delays over hinge problems – Firstpost")
Tipster claims foldable iPhone production faces delays over hinge problems – Firstpost
Publish Date: 2026-05-18 11:18:00
Source Domain: www.firstpost.com
Apple’s foldable iPhone, reportedly dubbed “iPhone Ultra,” may face delays due to hinge durability issues, despite ongoing efforts to meet strict quality standards and finalize its design and hardware
Apple’s long-awaited foldable iPhone was previously tipped to launch this year, but that timeline now appears uncertain, as a leaker claims the company has run into major development issues. A user known as Instant Digital recently posted on Weibo that the “iPhone Ultra” could be “indefinitely delayed” due to hinge reliability problems, with the mechanism reportedly failing to meet Apple’s strict quality control standards.
A range of new leaks suggests that the device does not hold up well under long-term use, with the hinge experiencing excessive wear after repeated cycles of opening and closing. Reports further add that it is unclear whether Apple is struggling due to its exceptionally high standards or other technical challenges, but if the issue is not resolved, the Ultra could face an indefinite delay.
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Past reports have indicated that Apple has been aiming for a crease-free display; however, the issue does not appear to be with the display itself. Instead, the hinge design is reportedly the main challenge. The post claims that hinge reliability after multiple usage cycles has not met Apple’s quality benchmarks, with the Cupertino-based company still seeking a “perfect solution” to the problem.
The hinge is a critical component of any foldable phone. Over the years, it has evolved significantly to improve durability and prevent failures caused by dust or debris entering the folding mechanism. Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo had previously reported that the device would use liquid metal components in the hinge mechanism. Instant Digital further explains that the material has a disordered atomic structure, making it more resistant to bending and deformation than traditional metals, and even more durable than…
