Samsung Electronics has solved crease and thickness issues that have long been persistent challenges for foldable displays by using titanium materials. Samsung Electronics said on Tuesday it had unveiled its "Flex Titanium" display technology, which will be applied to next-generation Galaxy foldables.

Flex Titanium centres on a dual structure that combines a titanium alloy film and a titanium plate, replacing the existing polymer film. While titanium is durable enough to be used in aerospace parts, its high elasticity has made it difficult to apply to foldable devices. Samsung Electronics said it overcame that limit with its own processing technology.

The titanium alloy film located under the OLED panel was made using an ultra-precision rolling process — a method that passes metal between two rolls to uniformly reduce thickness. It was made as thin as about one-third the thickness of a human hair, and its rigidity is about 20 times higher than polymer. It contributes to durability and improved screen creases while enabling a slimmer panel.

The titanium plate that supports the display beneath the titanium alloy film reduces its size and implements a firm bonding structure by applying micro-hole processing to the folding area. It stably supports the screen when the device is unfolded and secures flexibility when folded, also improving creases. The technology also applies a high-resolution design and next-generation organic materials to raise power efficiency.

Ryu Kyung-jin (유경진), head of Samsung Display's product development team and a vice president, said: "The titanium plate secured flexibility and durability at the same time through micro-hole processing in the folding section." He added: "We will further strengthen the competitiveness of next-generation Galaxy foldables by maximising power efficiency as well through high-resolution design and the application of new organic materials."

Flex Titanium will be applied for the first time to next-generation Galaxy foldables. Detailed product specifications are expected to be unveiled at the "Galaxy Unpacked" event to be held in London on July 22.