Apple to Feature Samsung Displays in iPhone Fold
Apple is set to enter the foldable smartphone market with the anticipated launch of its first foldable device, the iPhone Fold, expected in the latter half of 2026. Recent leaks from TF Securities International analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reveal that the device will feature a cutting-edge folding screen designed by Samsung Display. Additionally, internal hinges for the phone will be supplied by a South Korean manufacturer, which currently provides similar components for Samsung’s own foldable devices.
Innovative Display Technology from Samsung
Kuo’s insights indicate that Apple has opted for a crease-free foldable screen developed by Samsung Display, marking a departure from its usual practice of utilizing in-house designs for components. This strategic choice aims to facilitate stable mass production of the iPhone Fold. Samsung’s existing foldable models, such as the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7, incorporate internal hinges from Fine M-Tec, a South Korean contract manufacturer. Apple has reportedly engaged Fine M-Tec to supply 80 percent of the internal hinges necessary for its inaugural foldable smartphone.
The collaboration between Fine M-Tec and Samsung Display has led to the creation of a foldable display solution that employs microstructures crafted with lasers. Production of these internal hinges is projected to commence in the first quarter of 2026, with Fine M-Tec planning to enhance its production capacity at its facility in Vietnam. This partnership underscores Apple’s commitment to ensuring high-quality components for its new device.
Production Estimates and Supply Chain Dynamics
Kuo estimates that Fine M-Tec will manufacture between 13 and 15 million internal hinges for the foldable iPhone in 2026. However, this figure does not necessarily reflect the number of devices Apple intends to ship that year. A significant portion of these hinges will be allocated for use in Apple’s service centers and repair partners, and the total also accounts for potential yield losses during production.
This forecast highlights the complexities of the supply chain involved in launching a new device, particularly one as innovative as a foldable smartphone. Apple’s reliance on external suppliers for critical components illustrates the challenges of maintaining quality and efficiency in production while introducing new technology to the market.
Samsung’s Exclusive Role in Display Production
Earlier reports have suggested that Apple will exclusively depend on Samsung Display for the OLED panels in its first foldable iPhone. Competing suppliers, including BOE and LG, have reportedly struggled to produce a crease-free display comparable to Samsung’s offerings. This has led Apple to select Samsung as the sole supplier for these essential components, reinforcing the latter’s dominant position in the foldable display market.
The decision to partner with Samsung for display technology not only reflects Apple’s commitment to quality but also its strategic approach to entering the competitive foldable smartphone segment. As the launch date approaches, industry observers will be keen to see how these partnerships influence the iPhone Fold’s performance and reception in the market.
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