**Seoul**: Samsung Display has been named the sole supplier of OLED displays for Apple’s upcoming foldable iPhone series, projected for late 2026. This strategic partnership could elevate Samsung’s market share in foldable OLEDs significantly, while also impacting Apple’s supply chain approach.
Samsung Display Co., the display-making subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., has been confirmed as the exclusive supplier of organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays for Apple’s inaugural foldable iPhone series, slated for release in late 2026. This partnership has significant implications for both companies, particularly in the competitive landscape of the foldable OLED display market.
As reported by The Korea Economic Daily, Samsung Display’s role as the sole provider is anticipated to bolster its market share in the foldable OLED segment from its current approximate 40% to over 70%. Industry analysts indicate that this decision marks an unusual move for Apple, which typically sources components from multiple suppliers to enhance pricing leverage. However, expert opinion suggests that Apple’s choice was heavily influenced by Samsung Display’s advanced foldable OLED technology and its extensive experience supplying screens for Samsung’s foldable Galaxy series since the launch of the world’s first foldable smartphones in 2019.
The exact volume of the order remains unconfirmed, although estimates predict Samsung Display will supply over 15 million OLED displays annually for the new foldable iPhone, surpassing earlier forecasts of 9 million units. Competing South Korean firm LG Display Co. and China’s BOE had also been considered strong candidates for this contract but were ultimately unsuccessful.
The first foldable iPhone is expected to feature a 7.8-inch main display, comparable to that of the iPad mini, along with a 5.5-inch cover display. The design is speculated to mirror the book-style format popularised by Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series. The entry of Apple into the foldable smartphone market is poised to stimulate demand, with analysts anticipating that such a move would rejuvenate interest in foldable devices, particularly in the United States, which is one of the largest smartphone markets globally.
Current market trends show that shipments of foldable smartphones grew by 2.9% in 2024 compared to the previous year, despite an expected overall decline in 2025 as high prices continue to be a barrier to wider adoption. The pricing for the upcoming foldable iPhone is projected to exceed 2 million won (approximately $1,400), aligning with pricing for Samsung’s own foldable Galaxy smartphones.
Experts remain optimistic about the prospects of the foldable smartphone market with the introduction of Apple’s product, suggesting that it could mark a resurgence for foldable phones in the U.S. market. Additionally, as demand for foldable smartphones rises, Samsung Display’s market share in this segment is expected to rebound above 70% by 2026, following a significant decline to below 50% in 2024 due to increased competition from Chinese manufacturers.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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