Apple is reportedly teaming up with Samsung Display, the South Korean tech giant’s display division, for its first-ever foldable iPhone. This collaboration marks a significant step in Apple’s journey toward entering the foldable smartphone space—a segment it has so far observed cautiously from the sidelines.
From the looks of it, Apple is keen on leveraging Samsung’s deep expertise in foldable screen technology. And to be fair, Samsung Display has led the charge in this area for years. The goal? A stable, large-scale production process and, perhaps most notably, a “crease-free” screen—something that has plagued most foldable phones so far. If all goes according to plan, mass production could kick off in late 2025, with a product launch potentially following in 2026.
Key Takeaways:
- Apple is expected to source foldable iPhone displays from Samsung Display.
- The partnership is reportedly focused on delivering a “crease-free” screen experience.
- Mass production may start in Q4 2025.
- A 2026 launch is being eyed for Apple’s first foldable iPhone.
- Premium pricing is likely, based on current industry expectations.
For years now, the rumor mill has churned out speculation about a foldable iPhone. But with new details coming from respected industry insiders like analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, this feels more like a concrete development than idle chatter. Samsung Display—a critical arm of the Samsung Group—already supplies OLED panels for an array of devices, from smartphones to laptops and TVs. That makes it a logical partner for Apple, especially for something as technically demanding as a foldable screen.
Now, let’s talk about that crease. It’s one of the most persistent issues with foldable phones. Most models still show a visible crease right along the fold, which can be a bit of an eyesore, not to mention a durability concern. Apple’s reported push for a “crease-free” display indicates it wants to clear that hurdle decisively. Sources say the technology in play involves high-precision metal plates designed to evenly distribute the mechanical stress of folding. Fine M-Tec, a Korean supplier, is expected to provide these key components.
Interestingly, Samsung Electronics—which makes the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7—has yet to fully eliminate the crease in its own devices. If Apple pulls it off, it might just set a new bar for foldables. And it suggests Samsung Display could be developing a tailor-made solution that meets Apple’s famously rigorous standards.
Apple has never been one to rush into new product categories. Its strategy typically involves sitting back, watching the market unfold (no pun intended), and then stepping in with a refined version of the concept. That same playbook appears to be at work here. The rumored foldable iPhone might come with a book-style design featuring a 7.8-inch inner screen and a 5.5-inch external display. There’s also talk it could adopt Touch ID on the side button instead of Face ID—likely a design compromise to fit the foldable format.
The projected timeline places mass production sometime around the fourth quarter of 2025. That would pave the way for a release in 2026. And given Apple’s usual pricing tier, this device won’t come cheap. Early estimates suggest a price tag in the ballpark of $1,800 to $2,500.
This partnership also highlights an interesting reality of the tech world: competitors often become collaborators when it comes to complex supply chains. Even as Apple and Samsung duel it out in the smartphone arena, behind the scenes they frequently depend on each other for cutting-edge components.
For Indian consumers, Apple stepping into the foldable phone game could mean more options down the line. And perhaps, as competition intensifies, a nudge toward more accessible pricing in the segment overall.
FAQ Section
Q1: What is a foldable iPhone?
A1: A foldable iPhone is a rumored upcoming device from Apple that would use a flexible screen, allowing it to open up for a larger display and fold down to a more compact form factor.
Q2: When is the foldable iPhone expected to be released?
A2: The device is tentatively expected to launch in 2026, with screen production potentially beginning in late 2025.
Q3: Why is Apple reportedly partnering with Samsung Display?
A3: Apple is said to be partnering with Samsung Display to take advantage of its established leadership in flexible OLED technology, which is crucial for ensuring both quality and volume in the production process.
Q4: Will the foldable iPhone have a visible crease?
A4: Apple is reportedly working toward a “crease-free” display by using advanced structural components that minimize visible folds, a problem common in existing foldables.
Q5: What are the rumored screen sizes for the foldable iPhone?
A5: The device is expected to have a 7.8-inch inner screen and a 5.5-inch outer display.
