VERIFIEDBy Xavier Rivera· ·1 min read
TrendForce: Viscoelastic glue hides crease in Apple's foldable iPhone
TrendForce credits a special hi-tech glue with enabling an invisible crease on Apple's expected foldable iPhone. This breakthrough overcomes a major hurdle that delayed the device and positions Apple to grab significant foldable market share.
Source:9to5Mac
TL;DRAI · 60 sec read
TrendForce analysts pinpoint an advanced optically clear adhesive (OCA) as pivotal to Apple's near-invisible crease on its upcoming foldable iPhone. The glue's viscoelastic properties allow it to remain soft during bends, reducing fatigue stress, while stiffening under impacts for added support.
Apple rejected multiple Samsung display prototypes over visible creases, stemming from neutral layer misalignment in the panel stack. Designers addressed this last year through precise stress distribution, optimized neutral layer positioning, and variable-thickness ultra-thin glass—thinner at the fold axis, thicker elsewhere for durability, as detailed in Apple patents.
The OCA further stabilizes the neutral layer and fills microscopic gaps, minimizing light scattering that highlights creases. TrendForce notes these combined innovations enable Apple's entry into foldables. The firm projects Apple capturing 20% of the foldable smartphone market this year, according to reports citing the analysts.
Apple rejected multiple Samsung display prototypes over visible creases, stemming from neutral layer misalignment in the panel stack. Designers addressed this last year through precise stress distribution, optimized neutral layer positioning, and variable-thickness ultra-thin glass—thinner at the fold axis, thicker elsewhere for durability, as detailed in Apple patents.
The OCA further stabilizes the neutral layer and fills microscopic gaps, minimizing light scattering that highlights creases. TrendForce notes these combined innovations enable Apple's entry into foldables. The firm projects Apple capturing 20% of the foldable smartphone market this year, according to reports citing the analysts.
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