The Apple makes significant progress in the development of its first foldable smartphone, with projections that indicate a market launch in 2026. The big difference of the device, known internally as the iPhone Fold, is the use of a screen that promises to eliminate the central crease, one of the main complaints from users of current foldable devices. The innovation is the result of a strategic partnership with Samsung Display.
The technology enabling this improvement was demonstrated during CES 2026 at Las Vegas, where Samsung showcased a cutting-edge flexible OLED panel. The component uses an internal structure that distributes pressure evenly, preventing the formation of permanent marks in the fold area, even after intense and repeated use. The demonstration reinforced market expectations about the imminent arrival of the Apple device.
Sources linked to the Asian supply chain claim that mass production of the components would already be planned for the end of the year. The expectation is that the device will be officially announced in September 2026, following the company’s traditional launch schedule and integrating the brand’s new product line.
Technology that eliminates bending
The solution presented by Samsung Display at CES 2026 represents a milestone for the flexible display industry. The secret lies in a thin metal plate inserted under the OLED panel, designed to absorb and diffuse the voltage generated during the opening and closing movement of the device. Essa mechanical approach prevents the stress from being concentrated in a single line, which normally causes the material to deform and crease to appear. Durante the technology fair, the company demonstrated the effectiveness of the system in a 7.5-inch prototype, a size that aligns with rumors about the dimensions of the future foldable iPhone. Testes laboratory tests conducted by the manufacturer indicate that the screen supports more than 200,000 folds without showing any visible sign, guaranteeing a prolonged useful life and a superior visual experience, free from the aesthetic interruptions that mark competing models currently available on the market.
Strategic collaboration details
The partnership between Apple and Samsung Display is not new, but it reaches a new level with the foldable iPhone project. Embora are direct competitors in the smartphone market, Apple has historically depended on the production capacity and technological expertise of Samsung to supply its high quality OLED panels. Para the foldable device, the choice for the Samsung technology was made after rigorous internal tests that evaluated different solutions from other suppliers, consolidating the South Korean company as the ideal partner due to the maturity of its manufacturing process and innovation capacity.
This collaboration allows Apple to focus on other crucial aspects of the project, such as developing a proprietary hinge, optimizing iOS for the new dual-screen interface, and seamlessly integrating the device into its ecosystem of products and services. By delegating the complexity of the flexible panel to Samsung, Apple accelerates its development schedule and ensures that its first product in the category reaches the market with a high quality standard, mitigating the risks associated with a technology that is still evolving and seeking to establish a new benchmark for the segment.
What to expect from the device’s design
Reports and leaks from industry sources suggest that the foldable iPhone will adopt a book shape, similar to the Galaxy Z Fold of the Samsung, but with different proportions.
When opened, the device should feature an internal screen of approximately 7.8 inches, transforming into a small tablet ideal for productivity and consumption of multimedia content.
Closed, the device will feature an external screen of around 5.3 inches, allowing it to be used as a traditional smartphone for quick operations. The design should prioritize wider and less tall proportions, bringing the user experience closer to that of an iPad mini and making it easier to run multiple applications simultaneously.
One of the focuses of the Apple is the construction of the hinge, which will use components developed in-house to ensure a smooth, robust and durable opening movement. The mechanism is being designed to allow the device to close completely, without gaps, protecting the internal screen from the entry of dust and debris.
Schedule for launch
The development of a foldable iPhone is a long-term project within Apple, with research beginning more than seven years ago. During this period, the company registered numerous patents related to folding mechanisms and flexible display technologies.
The turning point occurred in 2025, when the partnership with Samsung Display allowed the crease obstacle to be overcome. With this critical issue resolved, the project gained traction and the company is now preparing for the mass production phase.
The official launch is expected for the September 2026 event, when Apple traditionally presents its news. Analistas of the market speculate that the device will be revealed alongside the iPhone 18 line, positioning it as an elite product in the brand’s portfolio.
The competitive market scenario
Currently, the foldable smartphone market is dominated by the Samsung, with its Galaxy Z line, which is already in its fifth generation and holds the largest share of the market. Outras companies, such as Google, with Pixel Fold, and several Chinese brands, such as Huawei and Xiaomi, also compete in the segment, but with a more limited presence globally.
The arrival of Apple is seen as a game changer, with the potential to drive mass adoption of the category. The company is known for entering existing markets and redefining quality and user experience standards, and the expectation is that the same will happen with foldables.
Price projections and target audience
Considering the cutting-edge technology involved, especially the crease-free screen and custom hinge, market analysts estimate that the starting price of the foldable iPhone will be over $2,000. Esse value will position it as one of the most expensive smartphones available, aimed at an audience of technology enthusiasts and professionals who seek maximum productivity and are willing to invest in cutting-edge innovation.
Advantages of creaseless fabric
The main benefit of a crease-free screen is an improved user experience. The absence of a central mark makes viewing videos, games and documents more immersive and enjoyable.
Furthermore, the completely flat surface improves interaction with the Apple Pencil, if the device supports it, and increases the perception of quality and long-term durability of the product.
