Trendforce: Hi-Tech Adhesive Crucial for iPhone Ultra’s Seamless Design
Apple is on the verge of introducing a groundbreaking device, likely called the iPhone Ultra, featuring a foldable design. This development comes after years of waiting due to concerns over visible creases in earlier models from competitors. Recent advancements have led to innovations that address these issues, with a focus on a hi-tech adhesive as a critical solution.
Addressing the Crease Problem
The visible crease seen in earlier folding smartphones was a significant concern for Apple. To ensure its standards, Apple reportedly rejected multiple samples from its display partner, Samsung. This decision prompted Apple’s own designers to get involved and explore various solutions to minimize the crease’s visibility.
Innovative Approaches
According to the supply-chain analysis firm TrendForce, Apple has adopted several strategies to tackle the crease issue:
- Precise control over stress distribution within the device.
- Optimal positioning of the neutral layer within the panel’s structure.
- Incorporation of ultra-thin glass (UTG) designed specifically for foldable technology.
The new technology leverages a variable thickness design, enabling localized thinning at the bending axis, while maintaining thicker regions for better impact resistance.
The Role of Hi-Tech Adhesive
TrendForce identifies a sophisticated adhesive as a fundamental component in reducing crease visibility. This hi-tech glue remains sufficiently liquid to fill microscopic irregularities, effectively preventing the formation of visible creases in the display.
Advanced Optically Clear Adhesive (OCA)
The next generation of foldable displays will rely on an enhanced form of optically clear adhesive (OCA). Key features of this advanced OCA include:
- Viscoelastic properties that improve mechanical response under stress.
- Softness during gradual bending to mitigate fatigue stress.
- Temporary modulus increase under sudden external forces to offer structural support.
This sophisticated adhesive plays a crucial role in stabilizing the neutral layer, effectively reducing stress concentration during folding. Additionally, its micro-flow features help maintain display quality over time by filling in irregularities which reduces light scattering.
Market Anticipation
As anticipation builds for the release of the iPhone Ultra, TrendForce projects that Apple will capture approximately 20% of the foldable smartphone market share in its debut year. This innovative approach, underscored by advances in adhesive technology, marks a significant step forward in smartphone design.
