How Apple is aiming to make the iPhone Fold display more durable than Samsung’s

Apple’s iPhone Fold has got to that point in the rumour mill where we’re no longer speculating about whether there’s going to be a foldable iPhone, but about what kind of material will be used to protect the display.

A new report from The Elec, claims Apple is going all out to prevent issues with the durability of the iPhone Fold display by using a built-in screen protector that’ll provide both hardness and scratch resistance. Considering it would be pretty difficult to add an after market screen protector, this will be a welcome addition.

The report says Apple is intent on using materials stronger than those in Samsung’s foldable phones. Samsung uses polyethylene terephthalate (PET) on handsets like the Z Fold 7. Apple might use this too, but add another layer called polyimide (PI) film to double down on protection.

The translated Elec’s report (via 9to5Mac) says: “According to multiple industry sources, Apple is reportedly considering both PET film and transparent PI film as protective materials for the UTG of its foldable products […]

“Apple’s consideration of transparent PI film as a protective layer over the UTG, unlike Samsung Electronics, appears to be a differentiation strategy. An industry insider explained, “Transparent PI film is more expensive than PET film, but its higher surface hardness makes it more scratch-resistant.”

It took Samsung a number of generations to bring the durability up to scratch, but Apple won’t want to take any chances with the first generation of a product that’s been anticipated for many years now.

There’s plenty that can go wrong with a foldable that’s not an issue on a standard phone. The hinge, the greater potential for dust and water intake and the thinnest of the display itself.

The iPhone Fold appears to be on track for a launch this year. Recent reporting has suggested if the company’s first foldable is a hit among consumers, then Apple might follow-up with a flip phone.



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