Apple has been awarded a patent application that could revolutionize the way we think about smartphone durability. The patent describes a foldable iPhone that can detect when it is being dropped and then fold itself in order to protect the screen from damage.
The application, which was first filed in 2020, describes a device with “self-healing” technology that is capable of detecting when the phone is falling and reacting in a matter of milliseconds. This would be achieved by using sensors within the phone that can detect changes in acceleration and orientation.
If the phone is dropped, the sensors would trigger a mechanism that would cause the phone to fold inwards, protecting the screen from impact. The phone would also have a mechanism that would unfold it once it is safe to do so, allowing users to continue using the phone without interruption.
The patent application also describes how the technology could be used in other devices, such as tablets and laptops, to protect them from damage caused by drops.
Apple is not the first company to explore the idea of a foldable smartphone. Samsung, Huawei, and Motorola have all released foldable devices in recent years, but they have not yet addressed the issue of durability.
Apple has a long history of using patents to protect its technology, so it is unclear whether or not the company plans to release a foldable iPhone with self-healing technology. However, the patent application is a strong indication that Apple is exploring the idea of foldable devices and is actively seeking ways to make them more durable.
The technology described in the patent application could be a game-changer for the smartphone industry. Dropped phones are a common issue, and screen repairs can be expensive. A device that can protect itself from damage caused by drops could save users a lot of money in repair costs.
