Apple secures ultra-thin glass supply for its first foldable screen device launching next year

Apple is going to launch its first device with a folding screen in the second half of next year, according to a new supply-chain report. Ahead of that, the company has now tapped Chinese maker Lens Technology to manufacture the ultra-thin glass (UTG) that will be placed on top of the folding panel.

Lens Technology is expected to secure approximately 70% of Apple's UTG orders, with Corning likely supplying the raw materials, today's report goes on to claim. Lens Technology was chosen by Apple thanks to its advantages in mass production capabilities and financial resources for UTG manufacturing.

It's said to be especially good at glass etching, strengthening and minimizing side cracks after cutting. The supplier will expand its UTG production line later this year in advance of starting production for Apple.

Apple apparently wants to thin only the central part of the UTG, the one that's nearest to the hinge. This will allow for greater overall UTG thickness and improved durability. South Korean Dowoo Insys and UTI are alleged to be potential secondary suppliers for Apple, with the former having already secured two patents in October 2024 related to thinning just the central part of the UTG. One of its patents is similar to Apple's patent for the same technology.

The folding display itself will most likely be supplied by Samsung Display, which is said to be the exclusive partner for Apple.

Source | Via