The future iPhone could feature a flexible screen as Apple is reportedly working with Japan Display on the new technology. The screen, consist of a flexible LCD panel layered with plastic, would make a significant contribution to the smartphone world.
The curve display, however, may be new to the iPhones. But other manufacturers, it is not specially and most notably its rival - Samsung. Samsung has built up a strong reputation on the curve design, such as its flagships Galaxy Note and Galaxy Edge. If Apple would like to step up their game, Japan Display's flexible LCD screen technology will fit perfectly, according to Forbes.
The technology by Japan Display is unique in various ways. First, its LCD feature has pushed the visual technology in LCD screen than most manufacturers - with the testament by its latest model iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus. Second, the technology is not going to be a mass production before 2018, which means iPhone 8 will not going to implement this. It is reported that iPhone 8 will be using OLED technology instead and that will be the first Apple's smartphone to use it.
It is clear that Apple is doing some long term planning either for new form factors, given that curved screen is going to be behind glass. Perhaps most importantly, it means that Apple would not be reliant on working with Samsung Displays for a key component of its smartphone and potentially second in line to any new research and technology.
A bendable or foldable iPhone may not be Apple's endgame here. If this technology is used inside upcoming iPhones then the flex and movement offered by the panel would see reduced forces caused by impact damage, said WSJ.
This will be an advantage for Apple to reduce the cost of warranty repairs and the incidences of out-of-warranty repairs required by customers, as over tens of millions of iPhones were sold. Perhaps it may offer new design such as for the Apple Watch - allowing a more form fitting screen to be used in wearable, or for a mythical VR headset for a better wraparound screen in customer's field of vision.
It is unknown really, what exactly Tim Cook has planned for this technology but there are a number of ways that it will be of benefit to Apple.
