A new rumor suggests that Apple’s approach to designing a seamless hinge for the upcoming iPhone Fold could become an industry benchmark, with rival manufacturers potentially adopting similar mechanisms if the design proves successful.
The report indicates that Apple may indirectly influence Chinese manufacturers by demonstrating its hinge engineering techniques, which could later be replicated across other foldable devices. It also suggests that Apple could eventually apply the same hinge technology in a future foldable iPad, although recent reports claim that development of an “iPad Fold” has been delayed or may not materialize at all. Opinions remain divided on whether such a product would be necessary.
Meanwhile, a brief and somewhat ambiguous post on China’s Weibo platform from well-known leaker Digital Chat Station states that Apple is currently leading developments in seamless hinge technology. Depending on translation, the post implies that either rival smartphone makers may adopt similar (possibly non-patented) designs, or that a future iPad Fold could feature the same hinge system.
If an iPad Fold is eventually released, analysts suggest it would likely reuse the same hinge design for efficiency and cost advantages across Apple’s foldable product lineup.
Hikawa Grip & Stand for iPhone Launches Globally at Reduced Price
After selling out almost immediately in 2025, the Hikawa Grip & Stand for iPhone has returned to the Apple Store online on May 19, now available in three new colors as part of an expanded collaboration between Bailey Hikawa and PopSockets. It is also being highlighted as a featured accessory in Apple’s OS 27 accessibility pre-announcement.
Originally launched in November 2025 as a limited-edition collaboration, the accessory was designed specifically for users with disabilities affecting grip, strength, and mobility. Unlike typical phone grips, the Hikawa Grip & Stand for iPhone was developed from the outset with accessibility as its core focus, rather than general consumer use.
Designer Bailey Hikawa created the oversized MagSafe-compatible grip to support multiple holding positions and reduce the physical effort required to stabilize an iPhone. Its sculpted, ergonomic form gives it a distinctly adaptive design language, resembling assistive hardware more than conventional smartphone accessories.
According to Hikawa, the design process involved extensive user interviews to understand how people with different physical needs interact with their devices, shaping a product intended to improve usability and comfort.
However, the original release also faced criticism due to its limited-edition nature and premium pricing. Some users questioned why an accessibility-focused product was positioned as a short-run collaboration rather than being made widely available as a standard Apple accessory.
Apple’s iPhone Fold Hinge Design Could Set New Industry Standard
