An iPhone Air might be a better direction for Apple than a foldable iPhone.
Foldables are pretty cool. There's no denying that. And yet, more than five years into the foldable smartphone idea, one big company is still reluctant to hop on that train. And I think I know why.
Even after five years of foldable smartphones, one major player remains hesitant. The reason may be their focus on user experience over novelties.
Apple has been at the center of foldable iPhone discussions. While other companies explore foldable designs, Apple seems to be carefully considering their value, apparently prioritizing a more practical design, the iPhone Air.
Some suggest the iPhone Air copies Samsung's Galaxy S25 Edge, but the "Air" concept is a long-standing part of Apple's history. When Apple introduced the MacBook Air in 2008, it presented its take on the ultraportable laptop.
This same approach is reflected in the iPhone Air. Apple has engineered it to be light and sleek, emphasizing usability and convenience.
The focus on thin, light phones comes down to one key aspect.
Foldables still seem like prototypes, and they require the effort of physically unfolding and folding, which gets old fast.
Foldable phones are also heavier, more fragile, pricier, and thicker. Creases, uncertain water resistance, and screen damage continue to be issues.
This may explain the question of a foldable iPhone. These compromises do not align with Apple's philosophy of making technology integrate smoothly into daily life.
The iPhone Air - practical for everyday use
Initial reactions to the iPhone Air were mixed. Some considered it a pointless gimmick, while others saw it as innovative.
Now, it's becoming clear what the intent behind the iPhone Air is.
It involves some trade-offs, like a single camera, smaller battery, and moderate charging speed. However, using the iPhone Air demonstrates that the overall experience outweighs these factors.
The iPhone Air is lightweight and comfortable to hold. Its 6.5-inch screen hits a sweet spot, and it avoids the need for a display that folds. Is a screen with a crease truly necessary?
Most consumers simply want less hassle. Foldable devices attempt to address a niche issue while introducing problems like questionable durability, usability challenges, and higher prices.
Moreover, the rectangular screen doesn't improve media consumption. Its productivity benefits are limited by mobile operating systems that don't fully support multitasking. Many foldable users primarily use the cover screen, negating the purpose of the design.
The iPhone Air addresses the trend of smartphones becoming bulky. It serves as a reminder of how light a phone can be.
Foldables are still not fully developed and have first-generation flaws. Apple aims for polished products that seamlessly fit into the user experience.
There may be a solid future for the iPhone Air, but the foldable iPhone is still in early stages. This could signal a shift in direction. Which is preferable: foldable phones or thin, lightweight devices?
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"Iconic Phones" is coming this Fall!
"Iconic Phones: Revolution at Your Fingertips" is a book about the most unforgettable phones of the last two decades, launching in a couple of months.
This illustrated book explores the mobile revolution through stories of over 20 popular devices. Sign up now for an early-bird discount.
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