Apple is reportedly cutting the cost of one of the most expensive components in its upcoming iPhone Fold — the hinge. A new supply chain report reveals that Apple managed to lower hinge cost by up to 40% through smarter engineering, not cheaper materials.
🔍 What the Report Says
According to 9to5Mac, Apple’s suppliers Foxconn and Shin Zu Shing (SZS) have entered a joint venture to produce the foldable hinge, bringing down the price from $100–$120 to roughly $70–$80 per unit.
Foxconn will reportedly handle 65% of the hinge production, while Amphenol manages the remaining 35% — ensuring multiple sources for quality control and scale.
The cost reduction comes from assembly design optimization, meaning Apple streamlined the hinge’s internal mechanics without compromising structural integrity.
💰 Why This Matters
Hinge cost has long been one of the biggest barriers preventing a foldable iPhone launch.
Now that Apple found a way to produce a durable hinge for nearly 30% less, it opens two strategic options:
- Lower retail pricing — making the iPhone Fold more competitive against Samsung and Google foldables.
- Preserve premium margins — letting Apple maintain profit while refining other hardware areas.
Either way, this is a significant step toward making Apple’s first foldable device a reality in 2025 or early 2026.
🧠 Quality vs Cost — Apple’s Balancing Act
Despite the savings, insiders emphasize that Apple isn’t sacrificing material quality. The hinge remains a high-tolerance component, crucial for long-term durability.
Foldable hinges undergo tens of thousands of open-close cycles, so Apple’s focus remains on maintaining reliability while reducing assembly complexity.
This design optimization likely involves:
- Fewer moving parts
- Precision CNC machining
- Reinforced hinge caps for screen alignment
🔮 What to Watch Next
- Durability Tests: Leaks from Apple’s supply chain or early prototypes.
- Pricing Strategy: Whether Apple positions the Fold below Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 Ultra.
- Launch Window: Possible 2026 debut alongside iPhone 18 series.
📎 Internal Link Clusters
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👉 To follow all the latest iPhone Fold news, leaks, and tech analysis, check out our iPhone Fold News Hub.
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