Apple’s first foldable iPhone is moving closer to launch, with new reports suggesting that display production is now underway. The device, which many reports refer to as the iPhone Ultra, is expected to debut in September. Earlier reports in April revealed that Apple had selected Samsung Display as the exclusive supplier of foldable OLED panels for the upcoming smartphone.
Now, a fresh report from the same source claims that Samsung Display has received approval to start mass production of the OLED panels. The approval reportedly came after the company achieved a manufacturing yield rate of more than 80%.
Meanwhile, Samsung Display’s production facility in Vietnam has already started operations. Apple has reportedly requested an initial supply of 3 million foldable OLED panels this year.
Display technology appears to be one of the major highlights of Apple’s first foldable iPhone. Previous reports suggested that Apple would use Samsung Display’s M14 display stack. However, the latest information indicates that the company has chosen the newer M16 luminescent material instead.
The M16 display stack is said to offer several improvements. It reportedly delivers higher brightness and better color reproduction. In addition, it improves power efficiency and provides a longer panel lifespan.
The report also states that the foldable OLED panels will feature Color Filter on Encapsulation (CoE) technology. This technology can help improve display performance while reducing overall panel thickness.
Although Apple has not officially confirmed any details, reports suggest that preparations for the company’s first foldable iPhone are progressing steadily ahead of its expected launch later this year.
