For years, foldable phones have battled one big issue: that noticeable crease down the middle. Now, it seems a real solution is finally on the horizon. Samsung Display, a key company in screen technology, has developed a truly crease-free foldable panel.
Many whispers suggested this breakthrough tech would debut on an Apple device. But insider Ming-Chi Kuo, a well-known analyst tracking Apple’s supply chain, has shared a different story. He points to Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Z Fold8, set for a 2026 release, as the first phone to feature these new panels.
The secret sauce behind these smoother screens lies in new hinge designs. Fine M-Tec, a significant supplier for Samsung Display, is pouring money into this innovation. The company announced a substantial investment of 17.5 billion won. This cash infusion will boost its capacity for producing advanced hinge parts made with laser processing.
What makes these hinges special? Fine M-Tec designed them with tiny, laser-drilled metal plates. This clever design helps spread out the pressure when the screen folds. It’s like magic, making that annoying crease almost disappear.
While Samsung gets the first shot, Fine M-Tec’s technology isn’t exclusive. Kuo suggests this supplier will produce over 80% of the hinges for Apple’s future foldable iPhone. This also solidifies Fine M-Tec’s position as a key partner for Samsung’s Z Fold8 production.
Apple’s entry into the foldable market, whenever it happens, will certainly shake things up. Their known demand for perfection, especially a truly crease-free screen, pushes other companies to catch up quickly. Expect more foldable phone makers to adopt similar laser-drilled hinge tech in their next models.
So, how much might a phone with this groundbreaking technology cost? MacRumors, citing UBS investment analysts, suggests Apple’s foldable iPhone could start around $1,800 to $2,000 in the U.S. That’s a premium price tag, even higher than a MacBook Pro, which starts at $1,599. It also aligns closely with Samsung’s current high-end foldable, like the Galaxy Z Fold7, priced at $1,999.99.