Rumours swirl around Apple's upcoming foldable smartphone - what innovative features could set it apart in a competitive market?

The smartphone market is gearing up for a new era with the impending launch of several foldable devices. Among the notable contenders are the Motorola Razr 50 Ultra, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, and Apple's anticipated foray into foldable technology.

The Motorola Razr 50 Ultra, set to launch soon, boasts a round aluminium frame and a vegan leather strip, offering a premium feel. When unfolded, it presents a straight and rigid appearance. However, Motorola's designers have come close to achieving 'creaselessness', but have yet to find a solution for dust resistance. The Razr 50, when open, measures 7.25mm thick and weighs 188g, making it a comfortable device to hold.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, while still showing a visible crease, comes as close as possible to eliminating the need to sacrifice performance for a flip model. When unfolded, it offers a straight and rigid display. The Galaxy Z Flip 6 also boasts professional-grade software and improved durability, making it a strong contender in the market.

Apple is planning to enter the foldable market with its first device expected by the end of next year. The company is working on a novel hinge mechanism and focusing on durability to address a common issue with foldable phones. If successful, Apple's foldable phone could potentially transform the smartphone market.

The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, a credible foldable phone on the market, was reviewed as 'the best new phone around' last year. It offers a unique square tablet screen, ideal for using apps side by side, although it does come with the compromises inherent to folding devices such as heaviness, dust resistance, and long-term durability.

Samsung plans to introduce an innovative tri-fold device with three displays in 2025, increasing competition. The Galaxy Z Flip 6 offers a compact foldable design, while the Galaxy Z Fold 6 features a large foldable display with AI integration and better dust protection.

Honor's Magic V5 stands out as the thinnest foldable with a large 5,820 mAh battery and high durability certifications, competing strongly with Samsung's offerings. Motorola's Razr 50 and Razr 50 Ultra provide further options in the foldable clamshell segment.

For Apple to lead a foldable smartphone revolution, it would need to match or exceed these innovations in display design, battery life, durability, and AI features. The foldable iPhone is expected to have a powerful camera configuration and a sleek design, appearing as thin as current iPhones even when closed.

Other companies that have already released foldable phones include Samsung, Google, Motorola, Huawei, and Oppo. As the race heats up, it remains to be seen who will emerge as the leader in the foldable smartphone market.

Rumours swirl around Apple's upcoming foldable smartphone - what innovative features could set it apart in a competitive market?