Jakarta - Apple's ambition to present a foldable iPhone without a crease seems to be getting closer to reality. The key is not only the screen design or hinge, but also the advanced adhesive technology that has so far escaped public attention.
The latest report from TrendForce says that optically clear adhesive (OCA) is the most crucial factor in creating a nearly seamless folding screen without fold lines.
Until now, the main problem of folding phones is the appearance of creases due to repeated pressure at the folding point. When the screen layer is no longer aligned, the pressure is concentrated and triggers permanent deformation.
This is where OCA comes into play. This new generation adhesive technology not only unites the screen layer, but is also able to adapt to pressure. When folded slowly, the material remains flexible to reduce structural fatigue. But when there is a collision, it can harden while maintaining the integrity of the screen.
OCA is also able to "fill" micro-imperfections on the panel over time, reducing light scattering and making the fold lines less visible.
Ultra Thin Glass and Smart Design Combination
In addition to adhesives, Apple is also developing a complex structural approach. Ultra-thin glass (UTG) technology is said to be used with uneven thickness - thinner in the folding area for flexibility, and thicker in other parts for durability.
This approach is in line with Apple's previous patents, even said to involve a double-layered glass structure to distribute pressure more evenly.
Samsung Already More
On the other hand, Samsung Display has also showcased a concept of a screen without folds at the CES 2026. However, the company confirmed that the technology is still in the research stage and is not ready for mass production.
Samsung uses techniques such as laser drilling on the metal plate supporting the screen to balance flexibility and strength - an approach that Apple is also reportedly adopting through its suppliers.
According to leaks from analysts and supply chains, Apple is targeting a fold depth of less than 0.15 mm with an angle of less than 2.5 degrees - a figure that, if achieved, will make the crease almost invisible to the eye.
Initial production of the device is said to have begun by Foxconn, while OLED panels will be mass-produced in the near future.
This device is expected to launch at the same time as the iPhone 18 Pro line in September.
Potential to Shake the Foldable Market
If successful, Apple is predicted to immediately seize up to 20 percent of the global foldable phone market share. This has the potential to suppress the dominance of old players such as Samsung and Huawei, which are estimated to be in the range of 30 percent.
With its "no compromise" approach, Apple seems to not only want to play in the foldable market - but immediately change the standard.
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