This morning, Ming-Chi Kuo released his latest research notes revealing that Dongguan EonTec is poised to benefit significantly from the widespread adoption of liquid metal in the hinges of the upcoming foldable iPhone. Apple had an extensive contract to work with Liquid Metal going back to 2010.

According to recent industry research, Apple is focused on improving durability, enhancing screen flatness, and minimizing crease marks in its foldable iPhone design. To achieve these goals, key components like the hinges will be crafted from liquid metal using a die-casting process. As the exclusive supplier of liquid metal, EonTec is expected to be the primary beneficiary of this shift.

Apple has been using liquid metal for small components for years (such as SIM ejector pins), but the foldable iPhone will mark its first major use of the material in a critical mechanical part. By the end of 2024, EonTec has shipped over 10 million central shafts, key hinge components made from liquid metal. As Android smartphone brands gear up to compete with the upcoming foldable iPhone, they are expected to increasingly adopt liquid metal for their hinges, driving rapid growth in the liquid metal market.

The ASP of liquid metal per foldable iPhone is estimated at RMB 70–100. Based solely on the first-generation foldable iPhone, EonTec could see revenue of RMB 1.5–2 billion—a potential 100–200% increase driven by this single order. As more competitors in the foldable phone market turn to liquid metal, EonTec’s growth could accelerate even further.

Dongguan Yihao Metal, a subsidiary in which EonTec holds a 60% stake, handles the production and shipment of liquid metal components. With the liquid metal business poised for strong growth, industry surveys indicate that EonTec may seek to increase its ownership in Yihao Metal over time to fully capture the subsidiary’s profits.