Apple's Foldable iPhone Prompts Samsung to Upgrade Galaxy Z Fold 8 [Kuo]

A new KRW 17.5 billion investment from key Apple supplier Fine M-Tec, spanning July 2025 to January 2027, adds further weight to reports about Apple's upcoming foldable iPhone, according to an analysis from TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. In a post on X, Kuo suggests the investment is likely driven by Apple's strict requirements for a crease-free display and the manufacturing advancements needed to meet them.

Kuo says the investment confirms his earlier prediction that Apple's strict crease-free display requirements would push suppliers to adopt more advanced techniques, such as laser drilling for the display's metal plate. This is the critical component for controlling stress and preventing the screen from deforming. Kuo had previously reported that Apple would use a crease-free display from Samsung, with Fine M-Tec supplying the crucial metal plate.

Apple's display strategy is already having a ripple effect. Kuo notes that to better compete, Samsung is also expected to adopt the higher-priced, laser-drilled display plates for its upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8, which is slated for the second half of 2026. Fine M-Tec will reportedly be the exclusive supplier for that model, an upgrade from its role as the primary supplier for the Fold 7. This could result in a significant increase in both revenue and profit for the supplier.


Kuo adds that this likely won't be the last announcement from Fine M-Tec, as its investments related to the foldable iPhone are not yet complete. This suggests that while progress is being made, Apple is still finalizing key parts of its first foldable device ahead of a rumored late 2026 launch.

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