The foldable smartphone landscape is expected to heat up significantly in the near future. According to industry leaks, Apple’s first foldable iPhone - tentatively dubbed iPhone Fold - could make its debut by the end of 2026.

The prospect of Apple stepping into a domain long dominated by Samsung is already ramping up pressure on the Korean tech giant. And if recent reports are accurate, Samsung’s response could be dramatic: transforming the Galaxy Z Fold 8 into a formidable contender through its most sweeping upgrades to date.

Samsung determined to tackle the “crease” issue on Galaxy Z Fold 8

A recent report suggests that Samsung is planning to deploy multiple new technologies simultaneously in the Galaxy Z Fold 8 to significantly reduce the visibility of the screen crease. At the heart of this strategy is a dual Ultra Thin Glass (UTG) structure.

Previously, UTG was only applied to the top layer of the OLED panel. For the upcoming generation, however, Samsung is reportedly using UTG on both the upper and lower layers of the screen. With ultra-thin glass on both sides, the overall panel structure becomes more stable, which in turn helps minimize the appearance of the crease when the screen is unfolded.

Initial estimates suggest the crease visibility on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 could be reduced by about 20% compared to the Fold 7. While this may still fall short of a completely seamless screen, it represents a key advance in addressing what has long been the Achilles' heel of foldable display technology.

New OLED panel reveals major enhancements

Adding to the excitement, Samsung Display recently showcased its next-generation foldable OLED panel at CES 2026. Beyond the dual-UTG architecture, the new screen also features an optimized laminate layer that enhances light diffusion and provides a more seamless viewing experience.

Samsung is also introducing a micro laser-drilled backplate. These microscopic holes help distribute stress generated during the folding-unfolding process, reducing the concentration of pressure on any single point. As a result, the crease can gradually fade over time, while the screen's overall durability is significantly improved.

Apple and Samsung: same tech, different design philosophies

Interestingly, despite both companies using a similar advanced OLED foldable platform - developed by Samsung Display - their design approaches appear to diverge.

Sources suggest that Apple’s iPhone Fold will likely adopt a glass substrate. This method emphasizes structural rigidity and long-term durability, aligning with Apple’s design philosophy centered on premium build quality and sturdiness.

In contrast, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is expected to use a laser-drilled metal substrate. This design focuses on flexibility and stress management, aiming to optimize everyday usability and reduce long-term wear.

This contrast illustrates how, even while pursuing the same goal of minimizing screen creases, the two companies are fine-tuning their foldable displays according to distinct priorities. As a result, the “aging” behavior of each screen may vary over time between the iPhone Fold and Galaxy Z Fold 8.

The crease: foldables’ Achilles’ heel

Among all the challenges facing foldable phones, the display crease has been the most persistent. Users have also frequently criticized foldables for their relatively small battery capacities and underwhelming camera systems, especially given their premium price tags.

In recent years, both Samsung and its competitors have made meaningful improvements in battery life, performance, and camera quality. But the crease remains, a visual and tactile reminder of the physical limitations inherent in folding displays.

Still, with fresh innovations and ongoing refinements, 2026 could mark a pivotal moment. Samsung may come closer than ever to delivering a foldable screen where the crease is a minor technicality, rather than a daily nuisance.

Apple is rumored to be entering the foldable market with a book-style design similar to the Galaxy Z Fold series. Apple’s arrival will almost certainly do more than just provide another option - it could reshape the entire category.

The iPhone Fold’s debut could draw mainstream attention to foldables like never before, while also serving as a catalyst that forces Samsung to accelerate its pace of innovation. In recent years, many fans have criticized Samsung for playing it safe and lacking bold moves in the foldable space.

If Apple truly joins the game, competition will intensify - and users, especially loyal Samsung fans, may be the biggest winners.

Hai Phong