Apple Signs Non-Disclosure Agreements with Korean Part Suppliers regarding multiple Foldable Device Projects and more
A new supply chain report claims that Apple has signed Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDA) with Korean parts suppliers regarding multiple foldable device projects. Penalities for violations range from billions to tens of billions of won (US Millions to tens of millions).
According to Korea's domestic parts industry, Apple plans to release its first foldable product as early as 2026. Considering that Apple has "multiple" foldable projects that they're considering, the rumor of the first foldable being a flip phone could change as time goes forward, as no definite plan is in place as of yet.
The report by The Elec further states that with Apple reportedly aiming at 15 million foldables in its first year, it's likely Samsung that Apple will rely on for foldable displays because of their experience with their Galaxy Z Flip6. A copy of Samsung's Flip6 teardown is presented below.
If Apple wants to launch a foldable product in 2026, it will need to complete the construction of the supply chain in the second half of this year. Apple has a two-year development period for mass-produced products, so the supply chain must be decided in the second half of this year before the foldable product could be launched in the second half of 2026.
The supply chain of cover windows ultra-thin glass (UTG) and hinges for Apple foldables has also not been determined. The product concept as well as the technological method to be applied remain to be considered.
Apple has been considering the use of a thicker UTG than that used by Samsung and only the folds are etched thinly – which pretty much supports Apple's patent on this particular feature that we covered back in March. One of the key patent figures is presented below.
The report surmizes that a book-style iPhone, like the Galaxy Z Fold6, could eventually replace the iPad mini.
With that said, there are mixed views as to whether Apple will be able to release their first foldable by 2026 because of the rapid changes happening with foldable hinges and UTG technology.
Yet with Apple's new NDA's being made public this week, it would strongly suggest that the wheels are now in motion for future foldable devices. Its' the timing to market that remains an open question.