Apple is yet to introduce a foldable iPhone or any device, unlike competitors such as Samsung.
Apple’s latest patent is adding to anticipation that the iPhone maker could be on the cusp of launching a foldable device.
The patent, which was awarded to Apple Tuesday, describes technology that would allow users to touch multiple parts of a device, not just the screen, to carry out functions.
For example, a user could touch the side of a device to control the camera, according to the patent. Apple describes this as a «virtual shutter button.» A user could also slide their finger up and down the side of the device to control the volume.
One of the images included in the patent is a drawing of a foldable phone or tablet that has a wraparound screen.
Apple is yet to introduce a foldable iPhone or any device, unlike competitors such as Samsung. Foldable smartphones allow the user to bend the device to close it and then open it up to reveal a larger screen.
