Apple, iPhone 15 and 15 Pro launch in September
Apple’s recent it’s evident that the tech giant’s hardware updates are substantial but somewhat predictable. While the iterative improvements maintain the iPhone’s high standards, the tech landscape is evolving, with a surge in interest and innovation around alternative form factors, especially foldable phones.
The OnePlus Open, recently unveiled to critical acclaim, marks a significant moment for foldable phones. This debut device from OnePlus addresses minor issues seen in other premium folding smartphones, boasting impressive hardware and software quality. Despite concerns about its price tag, the OnePlus Open has caught the attention of users and reviewers alike, creating a compelling case for the viability of foldable devices.
Joining the ranks of mature contenders like the Samsung Galaxy Fold 5 and the Google Pixel Fold, the OnePlus Open has personally swayed me away from my long-standing allegiance to the iPhone 15 Pro Max. The allure of a foldable screen, once dismissed as a gimmick, has transformed into a practical utility feature. Its functionality has proven itself during my initial days with the OnePlus Open, garnering interest and appreciation from both myself and those around me.
This paradigm shift has led me to switch platforms, venturing into the world of Android after years of iPhone use. The foldable screen’s appeal is not just a personal preference; it has the potential to eliminate the need for owning both an iPhone and an iPad, a sentiment echoed by my family members who have been captivated by its innovative design.
Apple’s hesitancy to embrace foldable phones may stem from its successful tablet business, with the fear of cannibalizing sales across product lines. Historically, Apple has been cautious about adopting new industry trends, preferring to refine and perfect ideas before introducing them to the mass market. While this approach has served Apple well, the tech giant risks appearing stagnant when competitors invest time and effort in refining experimental concepts.
OnePlus, building on its parent company OPPO’s foldable design with the Find N3, has not only perfected the form factor but also captured attention with its execution. While Apple may be quietly developing its iteration behind closed doors, the undeniable reality is that foldable phones are gaining traction, and Apple needs to embrace this trend swiftly.
Despite Apple’s continued success in hardware sales, a perceived lack of innovation in design fundamentals may impact its long-term standing. The iPhone 15’s current success might not reflect immediate consequences, but the gradual revelation of this innovation gap could unfold, much like the unveiling of a larger, more expansive inner surface when you fold out your smartphone’s display.
