Apple’s next-generation foldable iPhone is shaping up to be a technical marvel, with reports suggesting it will feature a thinner, more energy-efficient internal display. However, one of the innovations intended to enhance performance might inadvertently create a practical drawback: increased sun glare.
The device is expected to incorporate Ultra-thin Flexible Glass (UFG) and a Color Filter on Encapsulation (CoE) layer, both designed to reduce thickness and improve light transmittance. While these changes promise better efficiency and longevity, they may also elevate the display’s reflectance, making it more prone to glare under bright sunlight.
Thinner, But Brighter in the Sun
The CoE technology replaces a traditional polarizer with a directly deposited color filter, which boosts light transmission but can raise reflectance. Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra already uses this approach, and its reflectance jumped from 1.5% to 2.8%, nearly matching Apple’s current iPhone Pro Max models—devices that don’t use CoE. If Apple follows a similar path, the Fold’s display could face the same issue, making it harder to view in direct sunlight.
What Does This Mean for Users?
For those who rely on their phone outdoors, especially under bright conditions, this could be a significant trade-off. While the thinner, more efficient display sounds like an upgrade, the increased glare might make everyday use less comfortable—especially compared to non-CoE displays that reflect less light.
The Fold’s hinge is also expected to use a liquid metal construction, further streamlining its form factor. But if sun glare becomes a noticeable issue, it could overshadow some of those benefits for users who prioritize outdoor usability.
