Apple to use Samsung's crease-free display tech for foldable iPhone: Analyst

Apple's foldable iPhone will reportedly use Samsung's crease-free screen technology. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts Fine M-Tec will supply the display metal plates, capturing over 80% of Apple's orders. The plates will enhance stress distribution and crease resistance. Kuo expects the first foldable iPhone to be priced between $2,000 and $2,500.

Apple Inc. (AAPL) is reportedly set to incorporate Samsung Electronics Co. (SSNLF) Display's crease-free screen technology into its upcoming foldable iPhone. This decision is aimed at ensuring stable mass production, as stated by Ming-Chi Kuo, an analyst at TF Securities [1].

The first foldable iPhone is expected to feature an inward-folding OLED display, produced by Samsung Display at its A3 factory in Asan, Chungcheongnam-do [2]. The production line is dedicated to the new device and is currently in its final stage, capable of producing 15 million 7-inch foldable OLED panels per year.

Fine M-Tec, a top supplier for Samsung's foldables, is set to supply display metal plates to Apple. These plates are critical for reducing screen creases during folding and are expected to capture over 80% of Apple's metal plate orders [1]. The plates, priced at $30–$35 each, use laser drilling to enhance stress distribution and crease resistance, a significant advancement over traditional etching methods.

Kuo predicts that Apple's first foldable iPhone will be priced between $2,000 and $2,500. He also expects Touch ID to return on the side button, potentially replacing Face ID due to design and space limitations [1].

Apple's first foldable iPhone is expected to feature a super-thin design at 4.5mm, a 4:3 iPad-style 7-inch inner display with no visible crease, a durable hinge, a dual rear camera system with wide and ultra-wide options, the "A20" chip, and Touch ID instead of Face ID. The device is anticipated to cost over $2,000 [2].

References:
[1] https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46407880/apples-foldable-iphone-to-use-samsungs-crease-free-display-tech-says-top-supply-chain-analyst-what-we-know
[2] https://www.macrumors.com/2025/07/10/foldable-iphone-display-production-begins/