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Samsung Display's president has signaled the company will produce foldable OLED panels for a North American client, a remark that has reignited speculation Apple could be preparing an iPhone Fold for 2026.
Samsung's production plans and what was said
Lee Cheong, president of Samsung Display, told reporters the company is ramping up to manufacture OLED displays for foldable smartphones and that the panels will be supplied to a "North American client." He declined to name the buyer, but industry observers note Apple is the most likely candidate given Apple's long-standing partnership with Samsung on OLED technology.
Reports from Chosun Biz, highlighted by MacRumors, say Samsung's 8.6th-generation foldable OLED line is scheduled to enter production in Q3 2026. That quarter typically aligns with suppliers scaling up for Apple’s autumn iPhone manufacturing, which strengthens the theory that these panels could be destined for an unannounced iPhone Fold.
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How this could shape Apple’s roadmap and the market
A Q3 production start would point toward a possible September 2026 launch for a foldable iPhone. Some analysts also suggest the rumored iPhone Air model could act as a transitional product or testbed ahead of a full-fledged foldable iPhone release.
Foldable phones are making steady inroads but remain a niche category. Early 2025 estimates placed global foldable sales at roughly 15 million units, indicating interest but also showing room for growth. For Apple, timing, durability, pricing and a convincing software experience will be key to converting mainstream users to a folding form factor.
Conclusion
Samsung Display hasn’t named its North American client, but the production timeline and supply-chain patterns make Apple the most plausible candidate. If the schedule holds, 2026 could mark Apple’s entry into the foldable market — though widespread adoption will depend on whether Apple can deliver a durable, clearly beneficial folding iPhone at the right price.
Source: appleinsider
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