Solving the foldable dilemma: Apple's invisible crease technology

Apple has reportedly cracked the biggest challenge for its foldable iPhone: eliminating the visible crease on the display. For years, the unsightly fold line common in rivals like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold was deemed unacceptable by Apple’s design standards. Now, insider reports claim the company has refined the hinge-display synergy to make the crease nearly imperceptible. This milestone, achieved through advanced engineering and material innovation, could finally push the device toward production.

Apple's design philosophy: perfection over speed

True to its reputation, Apple prioritized perfection over rushing to market. While competitors released foldables with compromises, Apple spent years redesigning displays and hinges to meet its quality benchmarks. Insiders reveal the company rejected early supplier prototypes, demanding a complete overhaul. This relentless focus on seamless aesthetics and durability aligns with Apple’s history of refining technologies like Face ID or MagSafe before adoption.

Supply chain innovations: Samsung and Amphenol partnership

Key to solving the crease issue was collaboration between Samsung Display and hinge supplier Amphenol. Samsung’s latest flexible OLED panels, combined with Amphenol’s ultra-thin, durable hinge mechanisms, reduced crease visibility dramatically. The partnership, already tested in Apple’s MacBook line, ensured the foldable display could withstand thousands of folds without degrading a critical factor for Apple’s reliability-driven brand.

2026 vs 2027: the foldable iPhone's launch timeline

Speculation points to a 2026 release, with supply chain finalization targeted by April 2025. Analysts suggest a late-2026 launch alongside the iPhone 18 series, possibly branded as the “iPhone 18 Fold.” However, firms like TrendForce argue 2027 is more likely, citing Apple’s cautious scaling of new tech. Recent leaks, though, hint at accelerated plans, positioning Apple to redefine the premium foldable market sooner than expected.

Solving the foldable dilemma: Apple's invisible crease technology

Apple has reportedly cracked the biggest challenge for its foldable iPhone: eliminating the visible crease on the display. For years, the unsightly fold line common in rivals like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold was deemed unacceptable by Apple’s design standards. Now, insider reports claim the company has refined the hinge-display synergy to make the crease nearly imperceptible. This milestone, achieved through advanced engineering and material innovation, could finally push the device toward production.

Apple's design philosophy: perfection over speed

True to its reputation, Apple prioritized perfection over rushing to market. While competitors released foldables with compromises, Apple spent years redesigning displays and hinges to meet its quality benchmarks. Insiders reveal the company rejected early supplier prototypes, demanding a complete overhaul. This relentless focus on seamless aesthetics and durability aligns with Apple’s history of refining technologies like Face ID or MagSafe before adoption.

Supply chain innovations: Samsung and Amphenol partnership

Key to solving the crease issue was collaboration between Samsung Display and hinge supplier Amphenol. Samsung’s latest flexible OLED panels, combined with Amphenol’s ultra-thin, durable hinge mechanisms, reduced crease visibility dramatically. The partnership, already tested in Apple’s MacBook line, ensured the foldable display could withstand thousands of folds without degrading a critical factor for Apple’s reliability-driven brand.

2026 vs 2027: the foldable iPhone's launch timeline

Speculation points to a 2026 release, with supply chain finalization targeted by April 2025. Analysts suggest a late-2026 launch alongside the iPhone 18 series, possibly branded as the “iPhone 18 Fold.” However, firms like TrendForce argue 2027 is more likely, citing Apple’s cautious scaling of new tech. Recent leaks, though, hint at accelerated plans, positioning Apple to redefine the premium foldable market sooner than expected.