iPhone Fold’s crease‑free display still unresolved

• Key Takeaways:
• A Weibo leak from Digital Chat Station says Apple is still experimenting with ultra-thin flexible glass (UFG) to achieve a crease‑free iPhone Fold display.
• The leaker reports UFG samples of varying thickness are under test and technical challenges remain, though a September launch is still targeted.
• Chinese suppliers are also evaluating UFG and wide‑fold solutions, which could create early competition and affect supply at launch.

What the leak reveals

Recent posts from prominent Weibo leaker Digital Chat Station indicate Apple continues to tinker with display materials for its anticipated foldable iPhone. The key objective is a "crease‑free visual experience," and the company is testing different thicknesses of ultra‑thin flexible glass (UFG).

Translated claim from the leak

The translated Weibo message says Apple aims for a crease‑free foldable screen and is experimenting with UFG samples of varying thickness. The leaker noted that there are still technical hurdles but suggested Apple has time before a planned September release next year.

Why crease‑free matters for Apple

Apple has been cautious about entering the foldable market, in part because competitors like Samsung have had years to refine foldable hardware. For Apple, eliminating a visible crease is positioned as a quality threshold — part of delivering an "Apple‑grade" foldable experience rather than a rushed product.

Technical and user expectations

Achieving a crease‑free display involves materials science, hinge engineering, and long‑term durability testing. UFG promises improved feel and optics compared with plastic substrates, but manufacturing uniformity and longevity across millions of units are significant challenges.

Supply chain and timeline risks

Digital Chat Station also says two domestic Chinese manufacturers are testing similar UFG and wide‑fold approaches. If suppliers master UFG at scale, several vendors could ship crease‑reduced foldables next year, increasing competition.

Potential impact on launch and availability

Apple’s reported September target remains feasible, but unresolved display decisions could constrain production volumes. That aligns with previous commentary predicting limited initial supply of the iPhone Fold.

What to watch next

Look for further validation from supply‑chain sources and component leaks showing UFG samples or hinge specs. Also watch for announcements from glass suppliers and manufacturers testing wide‑fold processes — their readiness will shape pricing and availability.

Whether a crease‑free display is a must‑have will vary by buyer. But for Apple, solving the crease problem appears central to how it positions the iPhone Fold against established foldable rivals like Samsung.