The foldable iPhone is becoming a reality. According to multiple consistent reports, Apple has reached the initial prototype phase and is preparing to launch a foldable device in 2026. Production of the displays is scheduled to begin this year – at Samsung Display. This marks the first clear structure behind a project that was long rumored.
Apple is proceeding with caution with the iPhone Fold. Instead of betting early on foldable displays, the company initially observed developments at Samsung, Huawei, and other manufacturers. Now, there are mounting indications that Apple has made its decision: The first foldable iPhone is in the works. Samsung Display will handle display production, and Fine M-Tec will supply the hinge. The market launch is planned for the second half of 2026.
Samsung Display starts production of foldable OLED panels for Apple
According to a report in Korea JoongAng Daily, Samsung Display is expected to begin mass production of OLED panels for Apple's first foldable iPhone in the fourth quarter of 2025. The goal is to meet the planned schedule for a market launch in the second half of 2026. The panels will be produced on a converted production line in Asan, South Korea. This line was specifically prepared for Apple to meet demand. Samsung is currently the only display supplier that meets Apple's quality and yield requirements for foldable technology. While Apple typically prefers multiple suppliers to spread its risk, Samsung is currently the only possible candidate for foldable panels. Although Chinese supplier BOE supplies panels for Huawei and some iPhone models, it is not yet at Apple's technological level in the foldable display sector. LG Display, on the other hand, intends to stay out of the foldable panel market entirely.
Wrinkle-free display solution with components from Fine M-Tec
Apple will use a crease-free display solution for the iPhone Fold. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reports that Apple specifically chose Samsung's so-called "crease-free solution" to ensure stable mass production. A component from Fine M-Tec plays a crucial role in this. Fine M-Tec supplies metal plates for the internal hinges, which are designed to prevent the display from buckling by specifically distributing bending stress. To meet Apple's durability requirements, Fine M-Tec uses new laser technologies in manufacturing. The cost per unit is between $30 and $35. The company is expected to begin shipping to Apple in the first quarter of 2026. Production volume is expected to be approximately 13 to 15 million units, including spare parts and returns.
Apple secures exclusive production capacities
Samsung Display is expected to be Apple's sole supplier of foldable panels by 2026. Its long-standing experience in the foldable display sector gives the South Korean manufacturer a competitive edge over other suppliers. This is one of the reasons why Samsung is preparing a production line exclusively for Apple. Fine M-Tec is also responding to the high demand and plans to expand its production capacity in Vietnam. The goal is to supply over 80 percent of the components for the foldable iPhone. This makes Fine M-Tec one of the biggest winners of the iPhone Fold project.
Market launch confirmed for 2026
Several sources have now independently confirmed the timeframe: Apple plans to launch the iPhone Fold in the second half of 2026. The first internal prototypes are in the so-called P1 phase, which indicates an early stage of development but also means that the technical direction has now been determined. All further development steps are aimed at series production.
Apple makes no compromises with the iPhone Fold
Apple is entering the foldable smartphone market – but at its own pace and with carefully selected partners. It has chosen Samsung Display as its exclusive panel supplier and Fine M-Tec as the main supplier of the internal hinge structure. Production will begin in 2025, with sales scheduled for 2026. Unlike many Android manufacturers, Apple isn't going down this path until technology, quality, and production are perfectly aligned. (Image: Shutterstock / RHJPhtotos)
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