Foldable iPhone folds itself up for protection

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It is still uncertain whether Apple will ever launch a foldable iPhone. However, a new patent application confirms that Cupertino is still working on a foldable smartphone.

In it, Apple describes a technique that allows foldable devices to protect themselves. If one drops such a smartphone, it would automatically fold the flexible screen.

Protection mechanism explained
The patent application, dated March 16 and spied on by Business Insider, describes the protection mechanism. It says it is not even necessary for the display to close completely in case of a crash.

If the screen folds less than 180 degrees, this would mean protection for the display because the device can no longer fall directly onto the screen.

Self-healing display patented
The automatic folding mechanism is not Apple’s only patent related to foldable devices. Last November, a patent application was discovered describing a self-healing screen.

A polymer layer over the screen is said to compensate for minor scratches and dents. However, the display would need an external stimulus such as heat, light or electricity. Heat conductors, for example, could ensure that scratches are “ironed out.” This could happen automatically when the device is charged, for example.