Samsung is poised to play a pivotal role in bringing Apple’s highly anticipated first foldable iPhone to the market. According to supply chain sources in South Korea, Apple has significantly increased its foldable display orders, signaling a much larger initial launch than previously expected.

Specifically, the projected volume of foldable panels Apple plans to secure from Samsung Display has jumped from an estimated 13 to 15 million units to around 20 million. This suggests the Cupertino-based tech giant is preparing enough inventory for roughly 20 million foldable iPhones in its first wave of releases.

And this is just the beginning. Should the device perform well post-launch, Apple is highly likely to boost orders further. Samsung Display stands to be the primary beneficiary, as it currently remains the sole supplier capable of meeting Apple’s stringent technical requirements for this initial phase.

Recent reports indicate that Samsung Display will commence mass production of screens for the foldable iPhone in May 2026. Apple’s decision to rely on a single supplier underscores its strategy to maintain strict quality control during the early commercialization of its foldable devices.

Meanwhile, Chinese competitor BOE has repeatedly attempted to enter this lucrative supply chain but has yet to meet Apple’s rigorous yield and technical standards.

Sources also suggest that the inaugural foldable iPhone might feature a significantly wider screen ratio compared to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7—a design choice that aligns perfectly with Apple’s distinctive aesthetic.

Looking ahead, Samsung is reportedly developing a new foldable prototype, dubbed the "Galaxy Wide Fold," featuring a broader aspect ratio than the current Fold lineup. If this device debuts in 2026, the foldable market could see fierce, direct competition between the two tech titans.

Beyond the book-style foldable, other reports hint that Apple is also exploring a clamshell-style foldable iPhone, akin to the Galaxy Z Flip series.