If Apple is banking on a foldable iPhone to capture the public’s imagination, it might have some convincing to do. A recent CNET survey delivers a sobering reality: 75% of US adults say they "couldn’t care less" about a foldable version of the iconic smartphone.

Key facts

  • 75% of US adults express no interest in a foldable iPhone
  • Early testers have praised the rumored device's design, hinge, and usability
  • Reports suggest it may lack a telephoto camera and Face ID
  • The device could be eSIM-only worldwide

Behind the Apathy

That overwhelming lack of enthusiasm stands in stark contrast to the buzz within tech circles. For years, rumors have swirled about Apple entering the foldable market, with Bloomberg and others speculating it could "bring some magic back" to the iPhone lineup. Yet, for the vast majority of Americans, the concept simply doesn’t resonate.

Praise in the Labs, Indifference in the Living Room

Interestingly, those who have reportedly gotten their hands on early prototypes tell a different story. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, early testers are impressed, specifically praising the device's design, its hinge mechanism, and overall usability. It seems the potential is there—it’s just not translating to mainstream desire yet.

The Speculation Gap

Further reports, aggregated from sources like TechRepublic and Inshorts, sketch a picture of a device that might make some trade-offs. It’s suggested the so-called "iPhone Ultra" could launch without a telephoto camera or Face ID, and might be an eSIM-only device globally. For a market that appears lukewarm at best, these potential omissions could be significant hurdles to clear.