Apple Adops Dual UTG Widespread
Foldable Phone Per Unit UTG Installation Doubles
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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 acts as a cover window attached to the OLED panel. It protects the screen from external impact and scratches while being thin enough (tens of micrometers) to be folded repeatedly.
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 bottom. By adjusting the material properties of the upper and lower layered structures, 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 than dual UTG. One UTG is applied to the top of the screen, and a titanium alloy film and reinforced titanium plate are placed under the OLED panel.
The structure using only one upper UTG has the advantage of already securing mass production stability and having a relatively simple process. It can also reduce cost increases due to additional UTG, additional adhesive processes, and yield burden.
Apple chose the dual UTG method for its first foldable phone. As a latecomer entering the foldable phone market, it is interpreted that priority was given to minimizing screen wrinkles and improving product completion. By placing similar glass materials above and below the foldable OLED, the stiffness of the entire panel and folding stress can be adjusted more precisely.
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 north-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 product will increase from one to two.
Source : 디일렉(THE ELEC)(https://www.thelec.kr)
▶ Original Source: https://www.thelec.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=61687
