Apple Adopts Dual UTG, Expanding its Reach
Foldable Phone UTG Loading Doubles Per Unit
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According to industry sources on the 2nd, Samsung Display is producing dual UTG OLED prototypes in accordance with the specifications requested by Google, Oppo, and Vivo. It is reported that they are evaluating performance while reflecting the product structure, thickness, and durability conditions of each customer, and verifying mass production process conditions.
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Dual UTG is a technology that arranges one UTG on top and bottom of an OLED panel. The upper UTG serves as a cover window attached to the OLED panel. It protects the screen from external impacts and scratches while being thin enough (tens of micrometers) to allow repeated folding.
The lower UTG supports the OLED panel from below. When folding and unfolding a foldable phone, it disperses stress concentrated around the hinge and complements the stiffness of the panel's underside. By adjusting the material properties of the upper and lower layered structure, wrinkles in the center of the screen and deformation due to repeated folding are reduced.
Samsung Electronics' Galaxy Z Fold8 series adopted a different method from dual UTG. One UTG is applied to the top of the screen, and a titanium alloy film and reinforced titanium plate are placed below the OLED panel.
The structure using one upper UTG has the advantage of having already secured mass production stability and a relatively simple process. It can also reduce cost increases due to additional UTG, add adhesive processes, and burden yield.
Apple chose the dual UTG method for its first foldable phone. As a latecomer entering the foldable phone market, it is interpreted that prioritizing minimizing screen wrinkles and improving product completion is a priority.
Google, Oppo, and Vivo also chose a similar direction to Apple. In particular, Oppo and Vivo are highlighting screen wrinkle improvement and durability as the main differentiating factors for foldable phones.
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All three companies sell book-type foldable phones.
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The spread of dual UTG is good news for the UTG industry. Even if foldable phone shipments stagnate, the number of UTGs needed per unit will increase from one to two.
Source : THE ELEC (https://www.thelec.kr)
▶ Original Source: https://www.thelec.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=61687
