Cupertino, CA — Apple is reportedly preparing to disrupt the foldable smartphone market by developing a new device with a crease-free display, a key advancement over current foldable phones. According to multiple industry sources, Samsung Display is supplying Apple with specialized foldable panels that are designed to eliminate the visible fold lines found in existing devices.
Apple’s Foldable iPhone to Feature a Crease-Free Screen
Respected Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo revealed that Apple’s foldable device—unofficially referred to as the iPhone Fold—will incorporate a metal plate beneath the screen to evenly distribute pressure during folding. This innovation is expected to reduce or completely remove the crease typically seen in foldable displays.
The plates are sourced from Fine M-Tec, a South Korean supplier that also works with Samsung. However, while Samsung’s new Galaxy Z Fold 7 still shows a visible crease, Apple’s unique implementation suggests a custom-built design exclusive to its foldable model.
Despite sharing the same display supplier, Samsung has not yet used this crease-free technology in its own foldables. Experts believe the difference may lie in Apple’s advanced material requirements, exclusive engineering approaches, or tighter hardware specifications, all of which may be encouraging Samsung Display to push the boundaries of display design.
Expected iPhone Fold Specs and Release Timeline
According to a report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is targeting a second-half 2026 timeline for mass production of the foldable iPhone. Key features and specifications are rumored to include:
- A 7.8-inch inner display when fully unfolded
- A 5.5-inch outer display for standard smartphone use
- Dual rear cameras and a single front-facing camera
- Touch ID integrated into the power button instead of Face ID
- Thickness of approximately 4.5mm when open and 9mm–9.5mm when folded
While slightly thicker than Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7, the foldable iPhone is still considered slim for a first-generation foldable device.
Apple and Samsung Display: A Competitive Collaboration
This partnership between Apple and Samsung Display marks an intriguing dynamic where direct competitors collaborate on core technology. Apple’s rumored demand for a seamless display may lead to breakthroughs in foldable screen design that redefine the future of foldable smartphones.
If Apple can deliver a true crease-free foldable iPhone, it may set a new industry standard, pushing other manufacturers to adopt similar innovations and reshaping consumer expectations.
Conclusion: Apple Set to Lead Foldable Smartphone Innovation
Apple’s upcoming foldable iPhone could signal a major leap forward in foldable phone design and usability. With a crease-free screen, premium build quality, and strategic component sourcing, Apple appears poised to challenge Samsung’s long-standing dominance in the foldable segment. The race for the best foldable phone just got a lot more competitive.
Leslie Rajan