Apple will use Samsung Display’s metal‑plate crease‑free screen on its first foldable iPhone, with production set to begin in 2026.
TLDR
- Apple will rely on Samsung Display’s proven crease‑free technology for its foldable iPhone.
- Fine M‑Tec to supply over 80 percent of the metal‑plate components using laser drilling.
- Mass production slated for late 2026, with prices expected between $2000 and $2500.
- The move could set a new standard for foldable devices and challenge Samsung’s own displays.
Did you know Apple is already planning a foldable iPhone? It seems they want to make sure it arrives in 2026 without any visible crease messing up the screen. Instead of building something from scratch, Apple is partnering with Samsung Display and Fine M‑Tec to ensure a near‑flawless viewing experience right out of the gate.
A ready‑made solution beats custom risks
Apple has chosen to license Samsung Display’s crease‑free screen technology rather than develop its own from scratch. Ming‑Chi Kuo says the display uses a metal plate with microstructures that spreads mechanical stress across the fold, keeping the display material within its elastic limit. In contrast, many foldable phones show wear and creases over time .
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 uses a similar metal‑plate concept but still shows a crease. Apple’s version will employ laser‑drilled micro‑patterns, instead of conventional etching, making it stronger and truly crease‑free . Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman also mentions Apple is prioritising a high‑quality hinge to minimise crease appearance .
Fine M‑Tec takes the lead
Fine M‑Tec is expected to supply over 80 percent of the metal‑plate components for Apple, starting shipments in early 2026 . Unlike etched plates, these new ones will be laser‑drilled, with each unit costing $30 to $35—substantially higher than the $20 for standard plates . To meet Apple’s demands, Fine M‑Tec is scaling up production in Vietnam .
Production plan and launch timing
Component shipments from Fine M‑Tec will begin in the first quarter of 2026, and mass production of foldable iPhones is set for the second half of 2026 . Apple is known for favouring manufacturing reliability over speed to market, and this partnership helps ensure strong yields when the phones roll off the line .
Pricing and market implications
Thanks to the sophisticated metal‑plate tech, analysts expect a price tag between $2000 and $2500 . Despite that premium, commentators from MacDailyNews predict Apple “will sell millions of units upon release, regardless of price” .
Apple’s entry could shake up the foldable smartphone market. If successful, we’ll likely see other manufacturers adopt similar crease‑mitigation technology to keep pace with Apple’s new benchmark .
Design and specs highlights
Additional leaks suggest a 7.8‑inch internal display and a 5.5‑inch cover screen, two rear cameras, a front camera, and Touch ID integrated into the power button departing from Face ID . The device should be about 4.5 mm thick when unfolded and around 9 to 9.5 mm when folded, slightly thicker than Samsung’s 4.2 mm and 8.9 mm respectively . But the trade‑off is better display longevity and sturdier build.
TechKV’s Takeaway
I’m excited about Apple’s cautious but calculated leap into foldable devices. Going with Samsung’s mature crease‑free tech makes sense. Apple is not chasing “first” but perfection by launch. They’re lining up the right partners and pushing for laser‑drilled precision that could leave Samsung’s own foldables trailing in crease visibility. At $2 000 plus, it won’t be for everyone, but I think Apple’s priority is setting a new bar and then scaling from there.
