Apple is apparently working hard on a foldable device, focusing on increasing the display's power efficiency to maximize battery life. A new report suggests that Apple has improved the display driver by shrinking the integrated circuit (IC) from 28 nm to 16 nm. This could be a crucial step forward in catching up with the competition in this space. Analysts say the device is already in early production, but mass production isn't expected until 2026.
Foldable smartphones have been on the market for a long time, but Apple has taken its time getting started. While manufacturers like Samsung and Huawei have already released several generations of their foldable devices, Apple appears to be taking a different approach. Instead of a quick market launch, the company is focusing on perfection and efficiency. Battery life is a key consideration, as foldable displays often consume more power than conventional screens. A new report provides clues as to how Apple might solve this problem.
Apple's advances in display technology
According to Weibo user "Phone Chip Expert," Apple has reduced the size of the integrated circuit in the display driver IC from 28 nm to 16 nm. This reduction in size allows for more efficient control of the screen, which reduces power consumption. This means less energy is needed to power the display, which in turn can extend battery life. Such a move is especially important for foldable devices, as the display is often larger than that of regular smartphones. By reducing the chip size, Apple can increase efficiency without compromising image quality or brightness (via Weibo ).
Market launch at the earliest in late 2026
According to analyst Jeff Pu, Apple's foldable device is currently in the "New Product Introduction" (NPI) phase at Foxconn. This phase is a critical step before mass production, as it is where Apple tests and optimizes various production processes. Mass production is not scheduled to begin until the second half of 2026, meaning the device likely won't be launched until late 2026 or even 2027. This clearly shows that Apple is taking its time to thoroughly test its first foldable device. The company traditionally relies on mature technologies and only brings products to market when they meet its own high standards.
Credible source with good hit rate
This information comes from a Weibo user who has made accurate predictions about Apple in the past. "Phone Chip Expert" correctly predicted that the iPhone 7 would be water-resistant. He also predicted that the standard iPhone 14 models would continue to use the A15 Bionic chip, while the A16 chip would remain exclusive to the Pro models. He also predicted that Apple would build its own servers to support Apple Intelligence using Apple Silicon hardware. Since these predictions were later confirmed by other sources, the recent report about the improved power efficiency of the foldable display could also be correct.
Why energy efficiency is crucial for Apple
Apple places great importance on battery life and energy efficiency. Even with its previous iPhones and MacBooks, the company relies on a close integration of hardware and software to deliver maximum performance with minimal energy consumption. However, a foldable device presents particular challenges, as the larger display typically requires more power. If Apple can solve this problem with more efficient display control, it could give it a significant advantage over the competition. Especially in the premium segment, where Apple positions itself, users expect long battery life without compromise.
Apple focuses on energy efficiency with foldable display
Apple is deliberately pushing ahead with the development of its first foldable device. The focus on more efficient display technology suggests that the company sees battery life as a key factor. By reducing the display driver IC from 28 nm to 16 nm, Apple may have taken a significant step toward improved energy efficiency. Although the device won't be released until late 2026 or 2027 at the earliest, current information shows that Apple is carefully preparing for its market launch. If the company overcomes the technical challenges, Apple's first foldable device could become a real competitor to Samsung and other established providers. (Photo by bbsferrari / Bigstockphoto)
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