September is shaping up as a 'super launch week' for foldable phones, the densest window of new releases in global consumer electronics this year — with Apple poised to join the category at last.

On September 7 at 14:30, Huawei will hold its HarmonyOS 7 | HUAWEI Mate XT 2 and all-scenario product launch, headlined by the second-generation triple-fold Mate XT 2, dubbed the 'Ultimate Master'. Later the same evening, Xiaomi hosts its autumn flagship event, unveiling its first 'wide-fold' flagship, the Xiaomi 18 Fold.

Apple, meanwhile, will hold its autumn product launch at its California headquarters on September 9 local time (1 a.m. Beijing time on September 10), under the theme 'Surprise and Shine'. The event marks John Ternus's first major launch since taking over as CEO. Multiple reports indicate Apple's long-rumored first foldable iPhone will finally debut, potentially under the name 'iPhone Ultra'.

Foldable phones, a key direction for consumer-electronics innovation, are steadily moving from the premium segment toward mainstream consumers. On the technology front, hinges and flexible displays have emerged as the critical areas of innovation: display modules and hinges together account for more than 50% of the foldable supply chain's cost, which is expected to benefit related inspection equipment and precision-processing machinery as industry penetration rises.

Beyond flexible screens and hinges, UTG (ultra-thin glass) cover panels are also an essential component of foldable phones. UTG covers offer advantages including extreme thinness, scratch resistance and good light transmission, effectively protecting phone screens from scratches and damage. As foldable phones become more widespread, demand for UTG cover panels continues to grow.