Apple is now one step closer to our foldable iPhone dream, as it has tapped suppliers for ultra-thin glass. We have been hearing details about Apple's foldable iPhone for a while, and there are mixed reports on the design. Some reports suggest that Apple will launch a book-style iPhone, while others state that the company will launch its clamshell foldable first. Apple has now selected its primary supplier for the ultra-thin glass for the foldable device, and it will choose potentially additional suppliers as we move closer to the launch.
Apple's first foldable device moves one step closer to becoming a reality as Apple taps suppliers for ultra-thin glass
Apple has selected Lens Technology from China as its primary supplier of ultra-thin glass for the upcoming foldable devices. The news was shared in a report by The Elec (via DigiTimes) suggesting that the supplier will take care of up to 70 percent of orders from Apple for the ultra-thin glass, and Corning will potentially provide the raw material. The report also mentions that the Chinese manufacturer Lens Technology showcased various advantages in mass production capabilities and the financial resources required for ultra-thin glass manufacturing.
Apple likely tapped the supplier for its glass-strengthening technology, which minimizes side cracks associated with cutting glass. Both of these strengths could allow the manufacturer to have better yield and ultimately more profit, and for Apple, the traits would allow for better durability. Lens Technology is also expected to expand the production of its ultra-thin glass this year, and it will continue to bring improvements until the displays enter mass production for the foldable device.
Apple is expected to launch its first foldable iPhone next year, potentially in the second half, alongside the regular iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Pro models. As for what we know about the display, the company plans to emphasize thinning only the central part of the ultra-thin glass, which allows it to be more durable and have greater overall thickness.
Apart from Lens technology, South Korean manufacturers Dowoo Insys and UTI are slated to be the company's secondary suppliers for the ultra-thin glass for its foldable device. On the flip side, Samsung Display will become Apple's exclusive supplier for the first foldable device, which could be the company's highly anticipated iPhone in a clamshell or Fold-like design. Various credible sources have claimed that Apple will potentially launch the foldable iPhone either next year or in 2027. We will keep you updated on the time frame and production of the device, so be sure to stay tuned.
About the author: Ali Salman is a technology reporter for Wccftech mobile section with a specialized focus on Apple and the intellectual property that drives mobile innovation. He has cultivated a unique expertise in analyzing and deconstructing complex technology patents, translating dense legal and technical documents into clear, insightful reports on future products.
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