iPhone Fold: Apple continues testing crease-free display

The iPhone Fold continues to be the focus of numerous leaks. While Apple typically only fine-tunes details shortly before the final development phase, a recent report indicates that not everything is yet decided regarding the display of the first foldable iPhone. The central feature, a display that is as crease-free as possible, is apparently still in the testing phase.

Apple has deliberately taken its time with foldable smartphones. While other manufacturers have long had several generations on the market, Apple is pursuing a different approach. A foldable iPhone will only be released when it meets Apple's own high quality standards. This very commitment is now driving the ongoing intensive redesign of the iPhone Fold's display.

Apple continues to work on a wrinkle-free display

According to a new leak from the well-known Weibo leaker Digital Chat Station, Apple is continuing to experiment with various solutions for a virtually crease-free display. The goal is a "crease-free visual experience" where no distracting crease is visible when the device is opened.

To achieve this, Apple is testing ultra-thin flexible glass, also known as UFG, in various thicknesses. This glass must be flexible enough to be repeatedly folded, yet remain strong and durable. This is precisely where the remaining technical hurdles lie, which have not yet been fully overcome.

Despite these remaining issues, the timeline remains essentially unchanged. The planned market launch of the iPhone Fold is still expected in the fall of next year. Apple will have ample time for further testing and optimization until then.

UFG technology is also a focus for Chinese manufacturers

The leak also provides insights into the supply chain. Two Chinese manufacturers are reportedly also working on solutions using ultra-thin, flexible glass. These technologies are currently still in the testing phase, including trials with wider, visible creases.

Should UFG technology prove reliable in the supply chain, corresponding devices could be launched as early as next year. These models would then directly compete with the iPhone Fold and further increase the pressure on Apple.

Why Apple has delayed the market launch so far

It has long been reported that a crease-free display is one of Apple's biggest sticking points. Although competitors like Samsung have been offering foldable smartphones for years, Apple has deliberately delayed its entry into the market.

One possible reason is that the technology has only recently reached a level that allows for a foldable device of so-called Apple quality. The display plays a central role in this. A visible crease would contradict the design and user experience standards.

Potential impact on availability and production

Digital Chat Station expresses no fundamental doubt that Apple will meet its display target. However, the report supports current speculation that the iPhone Fold might only be available in limited quantities at launch.

Should the development of the glass design be further delayed, this could strain production capacity more than previously anticipated. Analysts already expect limited availability. Any delay in the finalization of the display could exacerbate this situation.

iPhone Fold: Crease-free display remains the biggest challenge

The iPhone Fold is still in a crucial development phase. The latest leak shows that even shortly before its planned market launch, key display issues remain unresolved. Achieving a completely fold-free design, in particular, is proving technically challenging.

Apple is consciously accepting these challenges in order to bring a product to market that meets its own quality standards. Whether the display will be finalized in time and how much any potential delays will affect availability should become clear in the coming months. What is certain, however, is that the iPhone Fold will not be a rushed project, but rather a long-planned prestige project. (Image: Shutterstock / Karlis Dambrans)