Apple foldable screen, a 'noble' tech craze?

When news began to spread that Foxconn's assembly lines were trial-producing Apple's foldable iPhone, the tech world instantly erupted. This 'future creation,' expected to arrive in the latter half of 2026 and possibly debut alongside the iPhone 18, is set to start at 14,000 - 15,000 RMB in China, with the top configuration extravagantly surpassing 20,000 RMB, successfully claiming the title of "the most expensive iPhone in history." Is this truly a technological breakthrough, or a carefully orchestrated 'noble' celebration?

Foldable phones are not anything new; companies like Samsung and Huawei have been exploring this field for years, with technology continuously evolving and products becoming increasingly mature. Apple, however, is like an elegant aristocrat, strolling calmly and deliberately, only entering the scene after others have already paved most of the way.

By the time Apple's foldable iPhone arrives, consumers may already be well-versed in the various features of foldable screens. For Apple to launch at this point is not so much about leading the trend as it is about catching the last train. It's like a grand ball where everyone else is already dancing passionately, and Apple arrives belatedly in a magnificent gown, still thinking itself to be the most dazzling star.

Looking at the price again, the starting price of 14,000 - 15,000 yuan, with the top configuration exceeding 20,000 yuan, is practically challenging consumers’ wallet limits. Apple seems to always have a kind of mysterious confidence, believing that as long as they hang their logo, the price can soar freely.

Indeed, Apple has unique advantages in brand influence and ecosystem, but that does not mean consumers are willing to pay such a high price. In today’s fiercely competitive smartphone market, consumers are becoming increasingly rational, focusing more on product cost-effectiveness and actual experience. Apple’s foldable phone, though it may have some unique technology and design, is its value really worth such a high price? Or is Apple just taking advantage of its brand to play a “high-priced reaping” game?

Apple has always been known for innovation, but how much substantial innovation can this foldable phone actually bring? From the currently disclosed information, aside from the form factor change of the foldable screen, there doesn’t seem to be much in terms of eye-catching technology.

In terms of software, there may be some optimization for the foldable screen, but it’s essentially still the same iOS system. Regarding hardware, components like the chip and camera are also unlikely to see a qualitative leap. It’s like putting a fancy exterior on an old car, labeling it with a sky-high price, and claiming it as a brand-new model. Consumers won’t be fooled so easily; what they need is genuine valuable innovation, not this superficial “upgrade.”

The trial production of Apple’s foldable phone seems more like a carefully planned marketing show. Using high prices, a delayed entry, and seemingly innovative design, it attracts media and consumer attention. But behind this spectacle, we cannot help but ask: Can Apple truly still lead the entire industry trend with one product as it used to? Or has it gradually lost its direction in technology, relying only on this “noble” pose to maintain its status? Time will give us the answer, but until then, consumers are better off staying clear-headed and rational.