As expected, at the launch event on September 9, Apple will showcase its first foldable smartphone, tentatively named iPhone Ultra. This innovation in the form of a flexible display and hinge alone would cost the device over $2,000, but experts have warned that repairing the iPhone Ultra’s internal flexible display will cost users $1,155.
Image source: Samsung Electronics
At least, that’s the assessment of representatives from electronics repair service iCorrect.co.uk. Forbes. Even compared to competing devices from Samsung, that’s a big number. By comparison, replacing the flexible display on a Galaxy Z Fold 8 smartphone would cost $803 at UK market prices for similar services, while a similar program on the Galaxy Z Fold 7 would be only slightly cheaper – $770.
The service’s founder says replacing the internal flexible display for a foldable iPhone would be the most expensive repair procedure in Apple’s device history. The logic of the assessment is simple – since the display for the foldable iPhone is directly supplied by Samsung Display, the cost for Apple customers will be higher than for users of its own brand of foldable smartphones. In addition, the hinge mechanism of iPhone Ultra is produced using a 3D printer dedicated to this model, so the price will not be cheap. The novelty of the model meant that the repair crew was inexperienced, so the work itself would be rated higher than usual. Most likely, it will be more difficult and expensive to repair the Touch ID button, which is located on the side of the case and is often subject to mechanical stress.
A service representative said it would also be difficult for the iPhone Ultra to rely on Apple’s proprietary Care system, which provides a flat fee for device repairs. Most likely, rates will increase fourfold to $135, and Apple will abandon a fixed “insurance premium” in favor of an unlimited number of repairs. However, the more expensive Apple Care+ plan can justify itself. In addition, Apple smartphone rental services are available in some markets. For example, the monthly fee for the new iPhone 18 series starts at US$17.99, which is also very attractive to consumers.
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