Dowinsys, whose main product is ultra-thin glass (UTG) for foldable product cover windows, announced that it is developing UTG technology that etches only the central part. Applying a UTG that is thin only in the central part makes it easier to fold the foldable panel, and by increasing the overall thickness of the UTG, durability can be enhanced. This is a concept favored by Apple, and a technology that Samsung Electronics is also preparing to apply.

Dowinsys, disclosed this information in a securities report late last month. Dowinsys introduced the UTG with a thinly etched central portion as a 'hybrid UTG.'

In its securities report, Dowinsys introduced the hybrid UTG as "a new UTG that secures impact resistance in the flat part while keeping the folding part thin by making the thickness of the flat part and the folding part different, and implements a curvature radius of less than 1R (Radius of Curvature)." It added, "We have secured processing capabilities with a thickness difference of 40 micrometers (μm)," and "We are currently developing the product with the goal of completing product application tests by 2025 and mass production in 2026."

There are no foldable products that have mass-produced UTG with only the center etched thinly. However, it is known that Apple prefers this technology. Dowinsys is a company that belongs to the Samsung Display supply chain. It is supplying UTG for the Galaxy Z Fold, a book-type foldable phone, to Samsung Electronics. Dowinsys is aiming to enter the Apple foldable UTG supply chain.

The Elec report further noted that Dowinsys emphasized that it can handle both the pre-process (slimming, etc.) and post-process (reinforcement, etc.) of foldable UTG production. "As of the date of filing of the securities report, Dowinsys is the only domestic UTG company that can perform both the pre-process and post-process of UTG," it emphasized.

In addition to Samsung Electronics' Galaxy Z Fold, Dowinsys' UTG is also being used in Google, Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vevo's foldable phones. All are supplied mounted on Samsung Display's foldable panels.

Samsung Electronics also hinted at the possibility of releasing an 18.1-inch foldable laptop in early 2026. Dowinsys stated, "Samsung Electronics is expected to release a foldable tablet and laptop in early 2026, and Dowinsys has completed the development of an 18.1-inch UTG (large-area UTG) and is preparing for delivery." It is presumed to refer to an 18.1-inch laptop when unfolded and a tablet of around 9 inches when folded.