Apple's First Foldable iPhone Could Feature Samsung's Crease-Free Display, Launch Expected In Late 2026

Apple is reportedly planning to launch its first foldable iPhone in the second half of 2026, and new leaks have uncovered key details regarding its screen technology and vendors. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple will collaborate with Samsung Display to create a creaseless folding display. The internal hinge system will also be sourced from South Korean firm Fine M-Tec, known for supplying hinges to Samsung’s foldables.

Samsung Display to Power iPhone Fold’s Crease-Free Screen

In a major shift from its usual in-house approach, Apple has reportedly chosen to adopt Samsung’s display technology for its first foldable phone. TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claims Apple made this move to ensure “stable mass production” of the new form factor.

Samsung Display, which already dominates the foldable screen market with its Galaxy Z Fold and Flip series, is said to supply a crease-free OLED panel for the upcoming iPhone Fold. Unlike other suppliers like BOE and LG, who reportedly couldn’t meet Apple’s standards for a smooth, foldable display, Samsung has met the mark with a laser microstructure design that helps minimise crease visibility.

Fine M-Tec To Supply Most of the Hinges

Apple is also working with Fine M-Tec, the same company that produces internal hinges for Samsung’s foldable phones. The company is likely to provide approximately 80% of the internal hinge parts for the iPhone Fold. Production of these hinges, which are manufactured through sophisticated microstructure methods, is an important aspect of facilitating a smooth and stable fold.

Fine M-Tec is likely to start the manufacturing of these hinges in early 2026, with plans to increase its production capacity in Vietnam as well. Kuo estimates that the company will produce between 13 to 15 million hinge units that year. However, this figure includes parts allocated for service centres, replacements, and potential yield losses – not just the number of units Apple intends to sell.

Apple’s reliance on Samsung Display and Fine M-Tec shows how the tech giant is prioritising performance and quality over internal development for this first-gen foldable iPhone. While Apple is yet to officially confirm the device, these early supply chain insights suggest that the company is preparing carefully for a 2026 debut with proven technology – especially when it comes to display durability and user experience.