The surge of foldable devices, especially during the years 2022 and 2023, has undoubtedly marked a significant trend in the market, with numerous renowned brands offering their versions of foldable smartphones.
Amid the intense rivalry among these brands vying for the foldable smartphone market, reports suggest that Google is poised to introduce mandatory hardware requirements for manufacturers venturing into the realm of foldable devices.
Android expert Mishaal Rahman has shared insights via his Patreon page, shedding light on the potential regulations. Among them, it’s anticipated that all foldable smartphones must demonstrate an ability to withstand a minimum of 200,000 folds, ensuring durability for extended usage.
On the hardware front, the focus extends to the hinges of these foldable devices. Manufacturers are likely to be obliged to craft hinges that retain their robustness and structural integrity even after enduring over 200,000 folding motions. These hinges might be mandated to sustain at least 80% of their original strength after the extensive folding.
Shifting the attention to the operating system aspect, Google is expected to demand a particular level of commitment from foldable devices built on the Android platform. This commitment includes a stipulation for at least two major software updates and a duration of three years for security updates.
However, it’s important to note that, as of now, Google has not formally confirmed these rumored regulations. As the industry waits for official word, the potential impact of these regulations on the foldable smartphone landscape remains a topic of interest.
