Samsung Display has officially begun preparations for mass production of OLED panels dedicated to Apple's upcoming foldable iPhone, signaling a major advancement in both companies' strategic plans for next-generation mobile devices.
The company is finalizing construction of a new manufacturing line exclusively for foldable OLED displays, with equipment upgrades and installations that commenced in the second half of last year now nearing completion. The new facility, designed for 6th-generation glass substrates, is expected to deliver a monthly capacity of 35,000 sheets. When converted to standard 7-inch foldable OLED units, this equates to an annual output of 15 million panels and a monthly capacity of 1.25 million units.
This move highlights Samsung Display's deepening commitment to the foldable display segment and provides strong evidence that Apple is progressing toward entry into the foldable smartphone market. While Apple has yet to confirm development plans for a foldable device, the production setup by Samsung lends considerable weight to long-standing industry speculation.
Samsung Display's extensive expertise in OLED technology and proven production capabilities position it as a key innovator in the global display landscape. The decision to build a dedicated line for Apple not only expands its manufacturing scale but also reinforces its leadership in premium display solutions.
Industry analysts forecast rapid growth in the foldable smartphone segment over the coming years. Apple's anticipated involvement is expected to further accelerate innovation and competition in the market. As technology evolves and consumer demand for advanced form factors rises, foldable smartphones are poised to become a significant trend in the next phase of mobile device evolution.