Apple is nearing the completion of its production line for the much-anticipated iPhone Fold, heightening competition with Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7. Known for its impressive thinness akin to standard smartphones, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 has set a high bar for foldable technology. Recent information from supply chain sources indicates that Apple is ready to initiate production of its foldable flagship. The company has also been actively testing realistic prototypes to ensure every detail is perfected before entering mass production.
According to reports from ETNews, production of foldable OLED displays for the iPhone Fold has begun ahead of its official launch next year. Samsung Display is responsible for manufacturing these panels, specifically at its A3 factory in Asan, Chungcheongnam-do, which has been dedicated solely to the iPhone Fold’s display production and is reportedly nearing completion. This facility aims to produce 15 million panels annually, indicating Apple’s ambitious targets for its new device.
Samsung Display’s preparations for manufacturing organic light-emitting diodes (OLED) for the iPhone Fold began in the latter half of last year, and production has now entered its final stages. Apple has been considering a foldable iPhone since 2018, opting to wait until the technology met its rigorous standards. With Samsung already on its seventh version of the Galaxy Fold, it appears the time has come for Apple to enter the foldable market.
The iPhone Fold is expected to be launched alongside the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Pro, continuing Apple’s annual upgrade cycle. Initial production plans suggest Apple will manufacture between 6 to 8 million units, while Samsung’s production capacity far exceeds this, with a target of 15 million units. This situation hints at the competitiveness expected in the foldable smartphone market in the coming years.
Samsung’s production capabilities are projected at 35,000 sheets per month, allowing for the annual production of 15 million foldable OLED panels. As Apple’s exclusive supplier of foldable displays for the next two years, Samsung boasts the necessary expertise, as it has actively developed its own foldable devices. When unfolded, the iPhone Fold is anticipated to measure 4.5mm in thickness, slightly thicker than the Galaxy Z Fold 7, and will feature a smaller display.
The device will be powered by Apple’s A20 series chips and include Touch ID integrated into the power button, replacing the Face ID feature. Pricing is expected to start at around $2,000, closely aligning with the cost of the Galaxy Z Fold 7, further intensifying the ongoing competition between these tech giants.
