Smart Adhesive Ensures Crease-Free Display for Foldable iPhone
Advances in optically clear adhesive (OCA) technology are crucial for creating crease-free displays in Apple’s anticipated foldable iPhone. This innovative device is expected to launch later this year, with significant contributions from recent developments in adhesive formulations.
Key Technologies Behind Foldable iPhone Displays
According to TrendForce, a supply chain intelligence firm, creases typically occur when display panel layers misalign. This misalignment concentrates stress at the fold, leading to micro-cracks and possible deformation over time. However, advancements in OCA aim to mitigate these issues.
- Ultra-Thin Glass (UTG): A critical component, UTG design includes thinner glass at the fold for flexibility and thicker sections elsewhere for improved durability.
- Uneven-Thickness Panels: Apple has been testing panels with variable thickness, which can help manage stress distribution effectively.
- Dual-Layer Glass Structure: This structure is designed to enhance durability by spreading stress across multiple layers.
The Role of Optically Clear Adhesive
TrendForce highlights OCA as the most significant element in achieving a near-invisible crease. Modern OCA formulations provide several benefits:
- They remain pliable during gradual bending, reducing fatigue.
- They temporarily harden during sudden impacts to offer structural support.
- The adhesive’s capacity to fill microscopic irregularities limits light scattering, thus minimizing crease visibility.
Additional Engineering Considerations
Display hinge and structural engineering also play essential roles. Samsung Display employs laser drilling in support plates, a technique Apple is expected to utilize through supplier Fine M-Tec. This method is critical for balancing flexibility with rigidity in foldable designs.
Although Samsung briefly showcased a crease-free panel at CES 2026, it confirmed this was merely a research concept rather than a finalized product. Apple has aimed for a crease-free design “regardless of cost,” according to leaker Fixed Focus Digital. Reports indicate that production orders for the iPhone include a crease depth of less than 0.15mm and a crease angle of under 2.5 degrees.
Market Projections and Timeline
TrendForce projects that Apple could capture nearly 20% of the foldable smartphone market this year. This development would likely reduce the shares of competitors Samsung and Huawei to about 30% each.
The foldable iPhone is expected to be announced alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models in September. Recently, Foxconn commenced trial production, while Samsung Display is preparing for mass production of OLED panels in May.
