Apple is expected to shake things up this year. It's expected to make some changes to its iPhone lineup and also to launch its very first foldable iPhone.

Samsung is reportedly going to play an integral part in the company's 2026 product launches. A new report out of South Korea details how essential Samsung will be to Apple's plans this year.

Samsung Display has long been a key supplier of OLED panels for Apple. The company has sourced panels from China's BOE on occassion, but the report mentions that BOE is out of the running for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max.

That's because Apple is reportedly equipping the devices with LTPO+ panels with under-display IR technology. BOE may not be able to ensure adequate supply of those advanced panels, leaving Samsung Display and LG Display as the only remaining suppliers.

Samsung Display has also been making durable foldable displays for several years now. The report reiterates earlier suggestions that Samsung Display will be the sole and exclusive provider of foldable panels for the iPhone Fold.

Even though these two major Apple products this year will be in direct competition with the devices that Samsung Electronics makes, the conglomerate's robust components business means that Samsung can still make money when iPhones sell well in the market.

Apple is expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone towards the second half of this year. It's likely going to be priced around the same level as the Galaxy Z Fold models.