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6 big problems Apple’s folding iPhone won’t solve (from a long-time foldable user)

read original get Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 → more articles
Why This Matters

Apple's first foldable iPhone is expected to draw mainstream attention to a category Android makers pioneered years ago, but the underlying hardware compromises haven't gone away. The piece argues that plastic folding displays, non-removable screen protectors, creases, durability and IP-rating limits will likely apply to Apple's device too, tempering hype ahead of a September 9 launch.

Key Takeaways
Worth a Look

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 — If you're intrigued by a folding iPhone but don't want to wait, Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 7 is the current benchmark for big-screen foldables and the exact kind of device the article uses as its reference point. You get a tablet-sized inner display that folds into a pocketable phone, plus years of Samsung refinement in the hinge and software multitasking.

See Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.

Brady Snyder / Android Authority

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Apple is gearing up to launch its first foldable iPhone on September 9, coming years after Android OEMs launched the first foldable phones. Nevertheless, this will be the first folding phone that many people will actually be interested in, let alone buy.

Unfortunately, Android foldable phones have some enduring weaknesses and compromises, and Apple’s first foldable will almost certainly have most of these same issues. So, if you’re an Apple user and you’re buying into the iPhone Ultra hype, maybe keep reading before you pre-order it.

What's your biggest concern with the iPhone Ultra? 20 votes The folding screen's scratch resistance 40 % A screen protector that can't be removed by users 10 % Disappointing cameras 5 % Poor IP rating 10 % The display crease 15 % The screen's durability in cold weather 10 % Other (leave a comment) 10 %

1. It will have a plastic folding display that’s inferior to glass

Joe Maring / Android Authority

All foldable phones have large folding screens that are mostly made out of plastic. And you can bet your bottom dollar that Apple’s iPhone Ultra will also feature a foldable plastic screen. This often results in excess glare and fingerprint grease, although we’ve seen anti-glare coatings on foldables before. However, this is very bad news for durability.

Folding screens are significantly softer than conventional glass displays, making them more prone to scratches. In fact, Samsung and other manufacturers often warn users that a hard press of a fingernail can damage or dent the folding screen. Seriously.

In other words, Apple’s foldable screen will almost certainly have this same issue. The good news is that virtually all foldable phones have a pre-applied screen protector. It’s therefore possible that lighter scratches won’t actually affect the display itself. But then there’s more bad news.

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