A new report from China is confident that the upcoming iPhone Fold will feature a 3D printed hinge that will help minimize creases on its folding display. This is the first time we’re seeing specific details about the 3D printing used on the hinge of the iPhone Fold, which so far has been rumored to feature dual-layer glass along with liquid metal.
The Oppo Find N6 features a titanium flexion hinge made using 3D liquid printing technology
This wouldn’t exactly be a breakthrough as Oppo’s Find N6 already pioneered this approach on its second-generation titanium flexion hinge. Oppo achieved its “zero-feel crease” by laser-measuring the difference in hinge depth on a microscopic level and then applying 3D liquid polymer to flatten the hinge and make it thinner than hinges on previous foldables.
We’ve also seen past reports claiming that the iPhone Fold will match the Oppo Find N6 in terms of reducing its display crease, which is obviously a major focus for Apple. Apple is no stranger to 3D printed components, as it already uses 3D printed titanium casings for its Apple Watch series and the iPhone Air’s USB-C port. The 3D printing process is also more efficient and uses less material than traditional forging manufacturing.
Source (in Chinese)
