It is no secret that the reason Apple has yet to release a foldable phone is the iPhone maker’s desire for a crease-free folding screen. We also know that the bitten fruit company has enlisted Samsung Display to create it. However, it seems like the panel will actually make its debut on a Samsung device, rather than the long-awaited foldable iPhone as initially expected.
According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, next year’s Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 will feature the same laser-drilled metal display plate that will be used in the foldable iPhone. South Korean company Fine M-Tec will be supplying the component. This internal hinge is apparently crucial in ensuring a crease-less display, as it can distribute the stress caused by bending.
Fine M-Tec announced that it will invest KRW17.5 billion (~RM53.5 million) to support the growing demand for its hinges. The company is expected to supply Apple with more than 80% of the internal hinges. Kuo also believes that Fine M-Tec will be the exclusive supplier for the Galaxy Z Fold8.
The emergence of a crease-free Galaxy Z Fold8 could spell trouble for Apple, as the company is already on the back foot when it comes to the foldable market. A completely crease-less inner display might be worth the long wait, but if Apple’s rivals also offer the same perk, then a foldable iPhone would have to come with other appealing features to attract potential buyers.
While the current foldables have come a long way since their early days, their displays are still not completely crease-free. That said, Kuo is under the impression that Apple’s pursuit for the perfect foldable display will accelerate the adoption of laser-drilled display metal plates.
(Source: Ming-Chi Kuo via GSMArena)
