Apple reportedly taps Samsung to supply 11 million OLED panels for its first foldable iPhone

In a December 11 e-mail, G. Kim, a person claiming to represent Samsung's global communications team, denies the figures mentioned in the ET News article are accurate.

While we cannot confirm details about specific customers or potential supply volumes, we can clarify that the claim that “Samsung Display plans to produce 11 million OLED units next year for Apple’s foldable iPhone” does not reflect the facts.

Edited article continues as follows:

According to information shared on X by Jukan05 (actually based on a now-deleted ET News article), perennial tech rivals Apple and Samsung are both hoping the former’s expected foldable smartphone is a success. The Cupertino-based tech giant is reportedly sourcing 11 million relatively large OLED display modules from Samsung Display and a further 11 million smaller ones. If correct, it means Apple is entering the foldable segment on a larger scale than what most industry forecasts predicted.

The report indicates Apple is planning on delivering around 10 million foldable iPhone units, given that phone makers usually order more quantities than they will eventually produce, suggesting that Apple is confident it can carve out a significant market share with the first iteration of its foldable phone. The market is currently estimated at about 20 million units annually.

It is currently understood that the foldable iPhone is going to be a ‘book-type’ device with a 7.58-inch internal screen and a 5.35-inch external one. Industry rumours credit Apple with improving the crease, one of the drawbacks of foldable phones in general, by using new display tech, such as Color Filter on Encapsulation (COE) and Under Display Camera (UDC).

Apple has not publicly commented on the foldable iPhone, and it is not clear when the device might launch. However, we reported that the smartphone may debut in 2027 and cost $400 more than the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7.