Your future iPhone may have a screen that heals itself
Apple has been the subject of numerous rumors regarding its potential foldable devices, but the wait may seem worthwhile.
A newly discovered patent hints at a unique feature that could set future Apple apart in the foldable phone market.
Are self-healing screens coming to iPhone?
According to Android Authority, a patent was filed with the US Patent and Trade Office (USPTO) detailing a device with a self-healing folding screen. This technology could be applied to a range of devices, including laptops, tablets, smartphones, monitors, or wearables. The patent, however, specifies that the self-healing material could cover the entire display or just the flexible part of it.
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The document describes the automatic self-healing process, where the material fills in dents and scratches without external intervention. Alternatively, healing can be accelerated with heat, light, or electric current. There are also mentions of heat-induced healing that might happen during charging or on a set schedule.
This wouldn’t be the first instance of self-healing tech in consumer gadgets. LG previously introduced this feature back in 2013 with its G Flex smartphones, which could repair minor scratches on their backs. However, the technology had limitations, struggling with deeper damage.
Applying this to foldable phone screens, which are more prone to scratches due to their plastic nature, could be revolutionary. But it’s important to note that this is merely a patent filing. There is no certainty that Apple will implement this technology in its products.
Chance Townsend is the General Assignments Editor at Mashable, covering tech, video games, dating apps, digital culture, and whatever else comes his way. He has a Master's in Journalism from the University of North Texas and is a proud orange cat father. His writing has also appeared in PC Mag and Mother Jones.
In his free time, he cooks, loves to sleep, and greatly enjoys Detroit sports. If you have any tips or want to talk shop about the Lions, you can reach out to him on Bluesky @offbrandchance.bsky.social or by email at [email protected].
