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Apple is planning a foldable iPhone. This is now pretty much certain. While many details haven't been officially confirmed yet, according to a report from Business Korea, there are now clear indications regarding the display technology and one important point: the choice of the sole supplier for the OLED panel.
Apple is known for diversifying its components and not depending on a single supplier. For iPhones and other devices, Apple typically sources parts from multiple manufacturers—partly to control prices and ensure quality. This is different with the upcoming iPhone Fold. According to current information, Apple is relying entirely on Samsung Display. This is a significant shift in strategy, demonstrating that Apple is relying on proven technology for this product, even if it costs more.
Samsung exclusively supplies the OLED panel
According to a report by Business Korea, Samsung Display will be the sole supplier of OLED screens for the iPhone Fold. LG Display and the Chinese company BOE are excluded. According to industry insiders, this is because Samsung is currently at the forefront of technology – especially when it comes to minimizing screen creases on foldable displays. This is a crucial quality feature for foldable devices. For Apple, which places a clear focus on quality in its products, Samsung was therefore the logical choice.
Two displays: compact on the outside, large on the inside
The foldable iPhone will have two screens. When closed, you'll have a 5.5-inch external display, roughly the size of a regular iPhone. When unfolded, you'll see a 7.8-inch OLED display similar to a small iPad. The large screen is said to have almost no visible crease—something that's often a weak point in current foldables from other manufacturers. Two different, yet coordinated formats are intended to offer a familiar feel in everyday life while simultaneously providing significantly more space for content when you need it.
Touch ID instead of Face ID
Another difference from current iPhone models: Instead of Face ID, the foldable iPhone will likely use Touch ID. The fingerprint sensor is said to be integrated into the side button. This saves space inside the device – an important point in the development of foldable smartphones, which technically already operate in very tight spaces (via Business Korea).
Market launch and sales figures
According to the report, the foldable iPhone is expected to launch at the end of next year. An exact date hasn't been set yet, but September seems realistic. There's also no information yet on the number of devices Apple will produce. However, industry experts believe Apple could be a success with the device. The originally expected 9 million units per year could be significantly exceeded. Estimates now place sales at over 15 million devices.
The first iPhone Fold will be a special case
Apple is breaking from its usual path with the foldable iPhone. With Samsung as the sole display supplier and a completely new form factor, the company is taking a certain risk – but at the same time, it's sending a clear signal toward quality. What this means for you: If you want an iPhone that offers new features while remaining familiar, this model could be exciting. Technologically, it's likely to be one of the most sophisticated foldables on the market. (Photo by sabelskaya / Bigstockphoto)
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