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Samsung’s Next Foldable to Replace CPI Cover Layer w/Flexible Glass – Potential Threat to Gorilla Glass
October 21, 2019
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The UTG is based on DOWOO INSYS’ method with SCHOTT AG’s glass. Samsung Electronics has been using Corning’s Gorilla Glass as the cover glass material for its non-folding Smartphone displays. However, UTG could replace Gorilla Glass, if it provides the same level of scratch resistance, transparency and hardness with a thickness of <100µm as display makers are always trying to reduce the thickness and weight of the device. Corning, Asahi, and NEG have developed foldable glass materials and are also preparing to enter the market. “Although Samsung had looked into many different UTG manufacturers, DOWOO INSYHS clearly has the best technical skills when it comes to UTG.” said a representative for the industry. “Its technical skills are 4 to 5 years ahead of its competitors.”
 
The clam shell will be folded at the center where there is a horizontal fold. Because it is expected to be longer but has a narrower screen than Galaxy Fold, it focuses on portability rather than large screen. It is likely that the size of its display will be 6.7 inches. Although Samsung has decided on a design that is completely different from that of Galaxy Fold for its next foldable Smartphone, it has yet to decide on the release date. Predictions that Samsung would announce the release date of Samsung’s next foldable Smartphone sometime during the first quarter of next year, however, Samsung may adjust the timing on the announcement and the release date of its next foldable Smartphone due to positive reactions on Galaxy Fold from the market. The price of Samsung’s clamshell is estimated to be around $1,500;  $500 less than the Galaxy Fold.

An industry spokesman said, “Although Samsung is applying UTG material to clamshell design for the first time, there is a chance that Samsung will use transparent PI material for the next model for Galaxy Fold that will be introduced in the second half of next year.” “Although UTG is excellent when it comes to aesthetic impression, it will take some time for UTG to be used on other Smartphones as it is more fragile than transparent PI and has high production cost with not enough production capability and yield rate.” From: withok@etnews.com