Apple plans to adopt Samsung’s innovative CoE technology to create a slimmer and significantly brighter display for the iPhone Fold. This breakthrough report suggests that the upcoming foldable device will benefit from improved power efficiency and better battery performance.
Furthermore, this transition indicates that the majors is prioritizing thin designs without compromising on the high-quality visual experience users expect.
The Power of CoE Technology
Korean publication The Elec indicates that Samsung Display’s Color Filter on Encapsulation (CoE) will define Apple’s next generation. This technology removes the traditional plastic polarizer sheet that usually sits between the OLED panel and the device cover glass.
Although polarizers reduce reflections, they unfortunately block nearly fifty percent of the light emitted by the screen’s OLED panel. Consequently, manufacturers must pump more power into the display to maintain brightness, which rapidly drains the smartphone’s battery life.
Impact on Battery Efficiency
Instead of using a bulky polarizer, CoE technology integrates a color filter directly onto the protective layer of the OLED. Samsung originally debuted this technology as “Eco² OLED” in the 2021 Galaxy Z Fold 3 to save internal space.
This advancement allows devices to use smaller batteries without sacrificing the daily runtime that modern consumers have come to expect. Additionally, Apple’s “metal can” battery technology from the iPhone Air will likely complement these efficiency gains in the foldable.
Expansion to iPhone 18 and Galaxy S26
Interestingly, this advanced display technology is not exclusive to the iPhone Fold or even to foldable smartphones in general. Reports suggest that the iPhone 18 series and the Galaxy S26 range will also adopt these highly efficient panels.
This expansion marks the first time that a non-foldable Samsung phone, like the S26 Ultra, will utilize this technology. As a result, these flagship phones may no longer require expensive high-density silicon-carbon batteries to achieve impressive power efficiency.
Design Expectations for the iPhone Fold
Apple engineers successfully shifted the logic board to maximize internal battery space within the ultra-slim iPhone Air last year. Similarly, Samsung used a redesigned camera sensor and mounting system to place components closer to the edges of the device.
Most experts believe the iPhone Fold will be remarkably slim because Apple prioritizes sleek aesthetics over a bulky footprint. Therefore, the iPhone Fold could potentially be thinner than the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold upon its official release.
Q&A: Understanding the New Display Tech
Q: What exactly is CoE technology in simple terms?
It is a method that places color filters directly on the screen, removing the need for a thick polarizer.
Q: How does this help my phone’s battery life?
Since the screen is naturally brighter without a polarizer, the phone uses less power to illuminate the display pixels.
Q: Will this technology be used in standard iPhones?
Yes, reports indicate that the iPhone 18 series and the iPhone Air 2 will feature these advanced CoE displays.
FAQ
Is the iPhone Fold officially confirmed by Apple?
While Apple has not officially confirmed the device, multiple supply chain reports from The Elec point to active development.
How does CoE technology make the phone slimmer?
By removing the plastic polarizer sheet, engineers can shave off layers, resulting in a thinner overall display and device profile.
What is Samsung’s name for CoE technology?
Samsung Display brands this specific technology as “On-Cell Film” or “Eco² OLED” depending on the specific device generation.
Will the Galaxy S26 Ultra have a better battery because of this?
Yes, the improved power efficiency of the CoE display should lead to better battery life without needing a larger battery.
