New rumors about the first foldable iPhone are popping up online. According to rumors, Apple has started a series of partnerships with specialized companies
The rumor about the arrival of a foldable iPhone has been in the air for years but, up to this point, neither Apple nor the various leakers on the web have ever shared information about it, leaving the project shrouded in mystery.
A few hours ago, however, The Elec published a very interesting report that, if confirmed, could disappoint all those who are eagerly awaiting the arrival on the market of the first foldables from the Cupertino giant.
What we know about foldable iPhones
According to what was shared by The Elec, the Chinese company Lens Technology, one of the main manufacturers of components for electronic devices, is about to become the main supplier of Ultra-Thin Glass (UTG), the ultra-thin glass intended for future foldable devices from Apple.
According to the report, the Chinese company should take on about 70% of UTG's orders from the Cupertino company, while Corning, a company well known to the general public for the production of Gorilla Glass, should provide the necessary raw materials.
In recent years, Lens Technology has become one of the most important companies in the mass production of ultra-thin glass, which, of course, is a key element for the correct functioning of foldable devices. The company uses advanced techniques for strengthening the glass and reducing lateral cracks after cutting, two key specifications for creating a robust and long-lasting foldable display. In addition to this, the company also has an innovative glass etching technology at its disposal, which already represents a significant competitive advantage for the entire sector.
According to the information shared by The Elec alongside Lens Technology, there could also be other suppliers of UTG glass, the report mentions two South Korean companies Dowoo Insys and UTI, but at the moment no further information is available on this matter.
As for the display panel, Samsung could be the exclusive supplier of components although, given that there is still some time left until the device's release, it is not excluded that other brands could come into play, such as LG Display for example.
When will Apple's foldable arrive
According to what was reported by several industry analysts, including Ming-Chi Kuo and Jeff Pu, the arrival of Apple's foldable is expected between the end of 2026 and the beginning of 2027 but, clearly, it is still too early to have official confirmations.
What seems quite certain is that Apple is really determined to enter the foldable device segment, opting as usual for a smartphone made with innovative materials and, as evident from what has been said up to this point, the result of strategic collaborations with highly specialized suppliers.
According to what we read online, the Cupertino giant's approach should focus mainly on thinning the central part of the glass, keeping the rest of the surface thicker to improve its resistance and durability. This should also be added to an eye for design, which could rethink (at least in part) this innovative form factor and, obviously, performance.
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