Reports say Apple is experimenting with UFG glass for the iPhone Fold, but key technical challenges remain unresolved.

IT Home, December 20 — Blogger @數碼閒聊站 revealed new information today on Weibo about Apple’s first foldable-screen smartphone, the iPhone Fold.

According to the blogger, the goal of this foldable phone is indeed to achieve a “visually crease-free” display. Apple is currently experimenting with non-uniform thickness ultra-thin flexible glass (UFG) for the device. However, there are still some technical challenges that need to be resolved. Since the device is not expected to debut until September next year, there is still time to address these issues.

At the same time, two domestic Chinese manufacturers are also evaluating UFG technology and are testing “large fold” design solutions. If the technical challenges within the supply chain can be solved, these devices are also likely to debut next year and could compete directly with Apple on the same stage.

Later, a user commented: “If one day there’s truly no crease, that would be alien technology.”
The blogger replied: “The goal is no crease, but it feels quite difficult. As long as it’s visually almost crease-free, that would count as a success.”

Another user asked: “Has the X7 already adopted UFG, or not yet?”
The blogger responded: “They are all using UTG for now; UFG has not been finalized yet.”

Previously, citing information from TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, IT Home reported that Apple is expected to launch its first foldable iPhone in the second half of 2026. However, due to early mass-production ramp-up challenges, the product is highly likely to face supply shortages before the end of 2026. The supply chain is expected to achieve smooth shipments only by 2027.