Apple's highly anticipated entry into the foldable smartphone market will reportedly feature a display innovation not yet seen in Samsung's own Galaxy Z Fold series.
Sources indicate that the foldable iPhone's screen, supplied by Samsung Display, will integrate the touch layer directly into the panel itself. This in-cell touch technology is expected to reduce the overall display assembly thickness by approximately 19%, leading to a lighter and potentially more rigid device.
Current foldable phones, including Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold models, typically utilize a separate touch layer placed on top of the OLED panel. The move to in-cell touch for the iPhone, a standard for Apple's existing smartphones, promises faster response times and the elimination of a lamination gap. Achieving this on a foldable display presents significant engineering challenges due to the stress on the hinge.
Beyond the reduced thickness, the new display technology is also said to deliver "greatly" improved colour reproduction and brightness, including higher peak brightness levels. These advancements are likely a result of Samsung Display's efforts to meet Apple's stringent requirements for its first foldable device.
Industry analysts suggest the foldable iPhone, potentially dubbed "iPhone Fold," will sport a 7.8-inch inner display and a 5.5-inch outer display. Notably, the device is rumoured to be remarkably thin, potentially measuring as little as 4.5mm when unfolded.
Interestingly, there are suggestions that Samsung's recent focus on reducing the thickness of its upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 7 might be influenced by Apple's manufacturing demands as a display supplier. The Z Fold 7 is expected to be significantly slimmer than its predecessor.
While it remains to be seen if Samsung will adopt this in-cell touch technology for its own future foldables, the development highlights the intense competition and innovation within the foldable display market. Apple's first foldable iPhone is expected to debut next year and could carry a premium price tag of over US$2,000 (roughly CA$2,765).