The iPhone Ultra, Apple's foldable smartphone, may be the first phone to use liquid metal technology for its hinge, paired with a Vapor Chamber cooling system.
By the end of this year, the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Pro will definitely be the two main models launched in September 2026. However, the model attracting the most attention is the iPhone Ultra, which will be Apple's first foldable phone.
According to Fixed Focus Digital on the Weibo platform, the iPhone Ultra is expected to launch late this year, featuring innovations Apple has quietly developed for over 15 years — specifically, liquid metal technology for the hinge parts to enhance the durability of the foldable screen.
Additionally, the new iPhone Ultra will include a Vapor Chamber cooling system to manage internal temperatures within its ultra-thin body.
Interestingly, reports indicate that prototype units have already been sent to mobile network providers worldwide for system testing.
Apple has held rights to use Liquidmetal technology since 2010, but so far has only applied it to manufacturing components like SIM card tray ejector pins.
The website 9to5Mac referenced predictions from Apple-focused tech media Cult of Mac, which discussed Liquidmetal innovation back in August 2010, suggesting Apple might be exploring innovative materials to build a foldable smartphone using Liquidmetal hinges.
The key point is that if liquid metal can truly be used for the iPhone Ultra's hinge, it could solve the issue of visible creases on foldable screens while improving durability.
Source:9to5Mac