Apple is lagging behind other smartphone firms by not yet having an iPhone Fold, but it keeps trying — and reportedly has a couple of prototypes. What it also has, though, is a slew of other devices that could benefit from a screen that's more flexible than usual.
It's already been reported that a foldable iPad could replace the iPad mini in 2026. Additionally, Apple is exploring the possibility of making a foldable MacBook Pro. However, in those cases and all previous rumors, the key word has been "foldable." Apple could have something better: a stretchable display.
Stretchable Display Patent
A newly-revealed patent application shows that Apple is at least thinking very deeply about a stretchable display. Titled simply "Stretchable Display," the patent application is credited to an unusual and even extraordinary number of inventors. Instead of the typical range of between 1 and 10 inventors, this patent application credits 55 people, primarily based in California or Taiwan, where Apple has a research center.
Details of the Patent
The patent application is concise, featuring 13 images and just 22 pages. These pages focus on the specifics of having a display with "a stretchable portion with hermetically sealed rigid pixel islands." The application is light on examples of how stretchable displays could be used but suggests a wide range of potential devices:
- Laptop computers
- Cellular phones
- Smaller devices such as wrist-watches, pendants, headphones or earpieces, devices embedded in eyeglasses or other head-worn equipment, or other wearable or miniature devices
- Larger displays such as those mounted in kiosks or automobiles
Potential Use Cases
While the purpose of the patent is to cover how something may be done rather than detailing what could then happen with the technology, some use cases are apparent. For instance, an iPhone Fold could have a foldable screen on its inside and a stretchable one on the outside.
There have also been long-standing rumors of a HomePod with a screen. Instead of a squared-off design, the HomePod could feature a display that wraps around the device. Similarly, this stretchable display technology might address Apple's reported aim to create an Apple Watch screen that wraps all the way around the wrist.
Conclusion
It's important to note that this is currently only a patent application. Apple applies for thousands of patents every year, and not all are granted. Even when granted, it does not guarantee that the proposals will be realized in a shipping product. However, the potential applications of a stretchable display are intriguing and could significantly enhance the functionality and design of future Apple devices.
