The Patent & Its Features
A display that consists of several layers, including a flexible substrate, a thin-film transistor layer, and a protective layer, is the subject of the patent with the serial number US-20230011092-A1. The protective layer’s purpose is to stop cracks from emerging in the flexible substrate, the display component that is most prone to damage. Apple has also been given a patent for a self-healing display in addition to the crack-resistant display. Another prevalent problem with foldable devices is minor scratches, which this technique would enable the display to recover from.
Devices With This Technology
There have been rumours about a potential new iPad with a foldable display, even though many experts think a folding iPhone is unlikely. But this would give Apple a chance to test and improve the technology before perhaps introducing a foldable iPhone. Since the iPad is a lesser-known product in Apple’s lineup than the iPhone, a foldable iPad would also be less dangerous for the business.
Competition
It appears likely that Apple will release a foldable smartphone soon given the increasing number of competitors that are entering the foldable industry, including Lenovo with their foldable laptops, Google with its impending Pixel Fold or the already established Samsung Galaxy Fold. The development of Apple’s foldable smartphone will probably be significantly influenced by this latest patent and earlier ones on self-healing displays, adding additional dependability and longevity to the flexible form factor.
