Inside Apple’s $250 deal with Samsung for foldable iPhone displays

Samsung has reportedly secured a three-year deal to supply Apple with iconic displays for the iPhone Duo at around $250 per display-a move that allows both two tech companies to strengthen their business relationship.

It was already known that Samsung makes the presentations for the iPhone Duo and also that the display manufacturer holds exclusive distribution rights.

Apple was forced to accept the arrangement because no other firm was able to supply the required screens.

Previous reports underlined that Apple’s other main display manufacturer, LG Display, did not make folding screens. It has been observed that BOE sold them to Huawei, but Apple found them insufficient.

The interior screen on the iPhone Duo is exponentially more intricate than the one on the iPhone 18 Pro Max but it is not surprising that it would incur significantly higher production costs. The display primarily requires a manufacturing-intensive cost structure.

Furthermore, the $250 price does not actually include the costs of assembly or testing, and is also exclusive to the main screen as the source does not mention the cover screen.

The book-style features an outer display and a larger inner folding screen marking Apple’s first entry into the market with a planned $1999 starting price this year. The high cost reflects engineered precision for better brightness, lifespan and a barely visible crease underscoring Samsung’s primary role as Apple’s display supplier.