Apple will use liquid metal and improved titanium in its first foldable iPhone

Apple plans to apply two advanced technologies at once in the design of its first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Fold. This was reported by MacRumors with reference to sources in the company’s supply chain.

Liquid metal for the hinge

The key component of a foldable device, the hinge, will be made from liquid metal, also known as an amorphous alloy. Apple has been experimenting with this material for more than 15 years, having obtained an exclusive license to use it back in 2010. Until now, liquid metal has only been used in small individual components, as scaling up production remained the main challenge.

At the same time, the high strength, resistance to deformation, and wear durability of amorphous alloys make them an ideal choice for a hinge that is subjected to thousands of folding and unfolding cycles every day.

Improved titanium for the body

The body of the iPhone Fold will use a new titanium alloy that is stronger and lighter than the titanium frames currently used in iPhones. This will help compensate for the additional rigidity and weight requirements that are inevitable in a foldable form factor, while keeping the device reasonably thin and comfortable to hold.

Apple has been refining its titanium technologies for several generations, from the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max to the latest prototypes. The new alloy will be a logical continuation of this development.

Release timing and plans

According to sources, the first foldable iPhone will be unveiled in the fall of 2026 together with the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. This will allow Apple to introduce three new form factors at once and strengthen competition with Samsung and other manufacturers of foldable devices.

In brief

Apple will use liquid metal in the hinge and an improved titanium alloy in the body of its first foldable iPhone, the iPhone Fold. These materials will provide the necessary strength and durability for a folding design. The presentation is expected in the fall of 2026 alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. This will be one of Apple’s most significant steps in the development of foldable devices.