Samsung Display Co. clinched an exclusive deal to supply OLED panels for Apple Inc.’s first foldable iPhone, securing its dominance in the premium screen market.
The South Korean manufacturer will provide more than 15 million displays annually for the device, which is slated to debut in late 2026, according to smartphone industry sources. The order volume exceeds earlier projections of 9 million units.
Apple’s decision to use Samsung as its sole supplier breaks from its typical strategy of sourcing components from multiple vendors to maintain leverage in price negotiations. Industry observers attribute the unusual move to Samsung’s unrivaled expertise in foldable screen technology, particularly its capability to minimize screen creasing — a major concern for consumers.
The foldable iPhone is expected to feature a 7.8-inch main display when unfolded and a 5.5-inch cover screen in a book-style design similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold. It will likely retail for over 2 million won ($1,400).
The agreement is poised to boost Samsung Display’s global market share in foldable panels to above 70% in 2026, rebounding from below 50% in 2024 after facing increased competition from Chinese rivals.
