The foldable iPhone from Apple should hit the market with a screen that practically eliminates the visible crease in the center when opened. A recent report from TrendForce indicates that the company will combine ultra-thin glass with variable thickness and an optically transparent adhesive with special viscoelastic properties. The launch is scheduled for September, along with the new generation of iPhones. Esses materials act to reduce mechanical stress in the bending area and help repair microcracks that appear with use over time.
Apple waited several years to enter the foldable device segment. The objective is to offer a product that overcomes the current limitations of models available on the market. The solution involves advances in materials that go beyond the simple mechanical approaches used until now, such as more sophisticated hinges.
Key materials that combat screen creasing
The ultra-thin glass, known as UTG, takes on a more structural role in the design of the foldable iPhone. Instead of just acting as a superficial protective layer, it will have variable thickness according to patent Apple. The region of the curvature axis is thinner to allow greater flexibility during bending. Non-folding areas remain thicker to provide better resistance to impacts and scratches. The chemical reinforcement applied to the material complements this structure and increases overall durability.
The optically clear adhesive, or OCA, represents the most significant advance according to the report. Ele It doesn’t just work as glue between the layers of the panel. The optimized formulation creates pronounced viscoelastic properties. Durante Gradual flexing in normal use, the adhesive becomes softer and reduces stress concentration and fatigue on the panel. Quando A sudden external force such as an impact arises, the modulus of the material temporarily increases to provide localized structural support. Essa dynamic capability helps stabilize the display’s neutral layer and fills microscopic microcracks that form over time, which extends the life of the screen.
- Ultra-thin UTG glass with variable thickness design on bending axis
- Chemical reinforcement for greater resistance in fixed regions of the screen
- OCA adhesive with optimized modulus and viscoelastic behavior
- Laser perforated metal plates supplied by Samsung for voltage distribution
- Structure that modulates mechanical response and automatically repairs microcracks
This combination of elements should deliver a screen with a crease that is almost invisible or completely absent in the open position, meeting Apple’s high standards.
https://twitter.com/MajinBuofficia/status/2042938379776458865?ref_src=twsrc%5EtfwSupply chain collaboration and design details
Samsung Display is expected to supply the foldable OLED panels for the first foldable iPhone. Mass production of the displays is scheduled to begin at the end of June. Fontes indicate that Apple rejected previous samples until arriving at the current configuration, which includes laser-perforated metal plates for better control of bending stress. The device may be called iPhone Fold or iPhone Ultra.
Leaked dummy models show a book-like format, with an approximate 4:3 aspect ratio on the internal screen when opened. The main screen should measure around 7.8 inches. The external screen, when the device is closed, is around 5.5 inches. The total thickness can reach just 4.5 millimeters in the open position, with a titanium structure to maintain rigidity without adding too much weight.
Other rumors point to the possible return of the Touch ID integrated into the side button, rather than relying exclusively on the Face ID. The rear camera must be dual. The primary focus remains on the durable, flat-panel experience, differentiating the product from its initial launch.
Analysis of the TrendForce report on innovations in 2026
The document published by TrendForce this week reinforces that optimized OCA is the central element for foldable panels in the next cycle. Ele allows dynamic modulation of the mechanical response of the display depending on the type of force applied. In everyday use of gradual opening and closing, the adhesive reduces accumulated fatigue. In impact situations, it offers localized protection without compromising overall flexibility.
UTG takes on a role beyond traditional protection. The combination of variable thickness with chemical strengthening improves bendability in the critical zone without sacrificing strength in the flat parts. Analistas note that Apple prioritized material-based solutions to manage structural tension, rather than relying solely on external mechanisms like hinges.
The company could capture around 20% of the global foldable smartphone market in the first year of sales, according to TrendForce estimates. Essa projection considers Apple’s brand positioning and consumers’ expectations for a premium product without common visual problems.
Expected impact on the foldable devices market
The entry of Apple should influence the entire foldables segment. Current Modelos from other manufacturers still have a noticeable crease that becomes more evident with time. Apple’s solution, centered on variable UTG and viscoelastic OCA, could set a new quality standard for flexible displays.
The device should better exploit the larger format for multitasking, similar to what already exists on iPads. Aplicativos can better adapt to the large internal screen, improving productivity and content consumption. Integration with the iOS ecosystem also favors adoption among existing brand users.
The production of the panels by Samsung is in line with the September launch schedule. Algumas sources mention possible final adjustments to the supply chain, but overall planning remains ongoing.
Additional details on construction and durability
The display structure can include multiple layers of ultra-thin glass in some tested configurations, which helps distribute mechanical forces. Isso Reduces the chance of permanent deformation in the central area. OCA helps by filling microscopic spaces and maintaining layer alignment even after thousands of bending cycles.
Apple’s internal testing, according to supply chain reports, focused on long-term durability. The objective is for the screen to maintain a uniform appearance even after intense use. The variable thickness of the UTG allows the bending region to behave more elastically, while the edges and fixed center offer robust protection.
Expected technical sheet based on consolidated information
- Internal screen: approximately 7.8 inches foldable OLED with anti-crease technology
- External screen: about 5.5 inches when closed
- Format: book type with aspect ratio close to 4:3 on the open screen
- Key materials: variable thickness UTG, viscoelastic OCA and perforated metal plates
- Main display supplier: Samsung Display
- Approximate thickness: 4.5 mm when opened
- Additional features: possible Touch Side ID and dual rear camera
- Expected launch: September 2026
This data may still undergo adjustments until official presentation, but it reflects the current consensus of supply chain reports.
Apple has not made official comments on the project. Todas Information comes from market analysis and sources specializing in components.