For years, the foldable smartphone category has struggled with a common, persistent flaw. We are talking about the visible crease running down the center of the display. Brands like Samsung have made continuous improvements in this regard. However, that line remains a constant reminder that the technology is still a compromise. Now, reports suggest that Apple is finally ready to enter the market with the iPhone Fold in 2026 , and they appear to have done what no one else could: engineered the crease out of existence.
According to Chinese media UDN , citing supply chain sources, Apple has successfully moved the book-style foldable into the engineering validation stage. So, the company is on track for a planned September 2026 launch. The key to this timeline is a major technical breakthrough that could make the iPhone Fold the first truly crease-free device available to consumers.
iPhone Fold: Apple and Samsung could end the foldable display crease problem
Apple’s solution goes far beyond simply improving the flexible OLED panel. Instead, the firm adopted a systems-level engineering approach, treating the crease as a structural problem to fix. This required deep collaboration across the supply chain, including Samsung Display—which developed the custom inner screen—and hinge manufacturer Amphenol.
The solution relies on several components designed to manage stress at a microscopic level. Reports indicate a new hinge design utilizing durable Liquid Metal components to maintain a slim, robust profile. Furthermore, the internal structure uses a custom-designed metal plate system that precisely distributes the bending stress when the screen is folded. This is a fundamental shift from trying to hide the crease to engineering it out entirely.
High-end design, high-stakes pricing
If true, this potential tech milestone may explain both the long delay and the device’s rumored specifications. The iPhone Fold aims for an ultra-thin profile, potentially measuring just 4.5–4.8 mm when unfolded. It will reportedly feature a 5.5-inch outer display and a tablet-class 7.8-inch inner screen. Building a crease-free structure while maintaining such a slim profile requires premium materials. Analysts project a high entry price, potentially ranging from $2,000 to $2,500.
By solving the crease problem, Apple could finally attract several users hesitant to jump on the foldable phone train. If the iPhone Fold delivers on its promise of a seamless experience combined with Apple’s software ecosystem integration, it could finally unlock mainstream demand. The technology’s success could establish a new benchmark. However, as the original Apple Vision Pro demonstrated, a suitable price tag will also have a significant impact.
