Nikkei Asia

Apple's Foldable iPhone Hits Major Snag, Pivots to Glasses

AI technology
Apple has reportedly paused development of its first foldable iPhone. According to industry analysts, the company faced significant technical challenges. The main issue was the durability of the display after folding. This decision marks a major shift in Apple's product strategy. Instead, the company is now focusing its engineering resources on a different new product: smart glasses. The project, internally code-named "OpenClaw," is described as lightweight, wearable glasses. Unlike bulky virtual reality headsets, these glasses are designed for all-day use. They would project information and digital objects into the user's real-world view, a technology known as "augmented reality" or AR. Apple has not commented on these reports. However, experts note this move aligns with Apple's long-term vision for AR. The company believes glasses could eventually replace the smartphone. The pause on the foldable iPhone suggests Apple will not release a direct competitor to Samsung or Google in the near future. For now, the company is betting its next revolution will be worn on your face, not folded in your pocket.