Is Apple’s First Foldable iPhone Worth the HK$20000 Price Tag with Its Game-Changing Features

The foldable smartphone market is heating up, but Apple’s long-rumored foldable iPhone has remained shrouded in mystery. According to fresh supply chain reports, the highly anticipated device could debut as early as September alongside the iPhone 18 Pro series, though some analysts suggest a possible delay to December. What’s truly shocking fans, however, is the expected price: between $2,000 and $2,500 USD – roughly HK$20,000 – which would make it the most expensive iPhone in history.

To justify such a premium price, Apple is reportedly investing in several cutting-edge technologies. According to well-known Chinese leaker “Digital Chat Station,” Apple’s foldable will feature a unique dual-layer ultra‑thin glass structure. Unlike the single-layer UTG (Ultra-Thin Glass) commonly used in today’s foldables, Apple has developed a composite glass stacking technique where the display is sandwiched between two layers of glass, isolating it from the hinge. This design is said to distribute mechanical stress more evenly during bending, significantly improving durability.

Dual-Layer Glass to Minimize Crease, Next-Gen Hinge Design

Beyond the glass stacking, Apple is also tackling the dreaded “crease” issue. Reports suggest the company is testing a new type of Ultra-Thin Flexible Glass (UFG) with variable thickness – thinner at the fold for flexibility and thicker elsewhere for rigidity. Combined with a rumored liquid metal hinge, Apple aims to make the crease nearly invisible, a key selling point for perfectionist users.

In terms of specs, the foldable is expected to adopt a book-style design. The external screen would measure about 5.3 to 5.5 inches, while the internal display would unfold to roughly 7.8 inches – essentially transforming into an iPad mini. This form factor would be ideal for multitasking and immersive media consumption.

Targeting the Ultra‑Premium Market, Liquid Metal for Flagship Feel

While the steep price may deter some, Apple appears to be positioning this device as a luxury status symbol. The use of a liquid metal hinge not only helps reduce the crease but also enhances structural rigidity and premium feel, distancing it from cheaper foldables. For nearly HK$20,000, buyers would be paying for Apple’s years of refined display engineering and top‑tier craftsmanship.

Although launch timing remains uncertain (September vs. December), it’s clear that Apple’s first foldable is entering its final development phase. If the rumored technologies deliver, this record‑priced iPhone could indeed reshape the high‑end smartphone market.

🎯 Key Takeaways:

1. Dual‑layer ultra‑thin glass (UTG/UFG) sandwich structure to distribute stress and reduce crease

   
   

2. Liquid metal hinge for near‑invisible display crease

   
   

3. Expected September launch, starting price around HK$15,600 (approx. $2,000 USD) – the highest ever for an iPhone