TL;DR
Samsung Display unveiled a prototype folding screen at CES it calls an 'Advanced Creaseless Display,' and images make the central crease nearly imperceptible. Reports say the panel matches the aspect ratio rumored for an Apple folding iPhone and may be the screen Apple demanded before approving a foldable device.
What happened
At CES, Samsung Display briefly exhibited a prototype folding panel that the company says shows no visible crease. Photos shown by the company and later shared by reporters appear to show a flat, uninterrupted surface; one side-by-side image compared the new prototype with the Galaxy Z Fold 7, highlighting a stark difference in crease visibility. A video posted by SamMobile, however, suggests a faint line is still detectable under some angles. Multiple outlets noted the prototype’s aspect ratio lines up with prior reports about Apple’s planned foldable iPhone, and The Verge reported the exhibit was removed from the stand shortly after appearing. According to reporting cited in the piece, Apple had required a display without a noticeable crease and worked with Samsung Display—reportedly involving Apple engineers—to reach that standard. The panel’s brief public appearance and its attributed characteristics have led to speculation it could be the screen intended for a possible iPhone Fold.
Why it matters
- A truly creaseless foldable screen would address a long-standing visual and tactile concern that has affected early foldable phones.
- If the panel is destined for Apple, it would indicate Apple’s suppliers have met a core requirement that reportedly delayed an iPhone Fold.
- A creaseless design could affect consumer perception and adoption of foldables by making the open display look and feel closer to a traditional flat screen.
- Samsung Display using the same panel in its own devices, as suggested by some reports, would speed broader availability of the technology.
Key facts
- Samsung Display showed a folding prototype at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) described as having no visible crease.
- A published photo of the prototype shows no obvious crease; a comparison image places it alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 7, which shows a visible crease.
- SamMobile posted a video in which a crease can be just about made out under certain viewing conditions.
- The prototype’s aspect ratio reportedly matches that previously described for Apple’s rumored iPhone Fold.
- The Verge reported the display was only briefly featured on Samsung Display’s stand before being removed.
- Reporting cited in the source says Apple had asked Samsung to produce a foldable panel without a noticeable crease and that Samsung met this requirement last year.
- The source says Apple reportedly involved its own engineers in the effort to develop a creaseless panel.
- Photos of the prototype were credited to Samsung Display; the referenced video was credited to SamMobile.
What to watch next
- Official confirmation from Apple that this specific panel will be used in an iPhone Fold — not confirmed in the source.
- Whether Samsung will adopt the panel for its next Galaxy Z Fold as SamMobile suggests — not confirmed in the source.
- Evidence of a commercial device using this display (announcements, teardowns, or hands-on reviews) and any official release timing — not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- Foldable display: A screen built with materials and hinge mechanisms that allow it to bend or fold, enabling devices to open into larger displays.
- Crease: The visible or tactile line that can appear where a flexible display folds; manufacturers aim to minimize or eliminate it.
- Prototype: An early sample or model of a product used to test and demonstrate new technologies before commercial production.
- Aspect ratio: The proportional relationship between the display's width and height, often expressed as two numbers (e.g., 16:9).
- Consumer Electronics Show (CES): An annual technology trade show where companies frequently demonstrate new consumer electronics and prototypes.
Reader FAQ
Is this display confirmed to be the iPhone Fold screen?
Not confirmed in the source; reporting describes the panel as 'likely' based on aspect ratio and other clues.
Does the prototype have no crease at all?
Photos show no visible crease and Samsung Display claimed no visible crease, but a video indicates a faint line can be seen under some angles.
Did Apple require this creaseless display before approving a foldable iPhone?
The source reports Apple asked its display partner to develop a panel without a noticeable crease and that Apple engineers were involved in the effort.
Will Samsung use this panel in its own Galaxy Fold models?
SamMobile suggested Samsung may use the display for the next Z Fold, but that is not confirmed in the source.
I think Apple should take this radical approach to the new Siri Ben Lovejoy Jan 5 2026 The is likely the iPhone Fold display, and it looks amazing Ben Lovejoy…
Sources
- The is likely the iPhone Fold display, and it looks amazing
- This is probably the iPhone Fold's crease-proof screen
- Foldable iPhone's Crease-Free Display Tech Spotted at …
- Samsung just revealed the first creaseless foldable screen
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