Apple's iPhone Duo has attracted more pre-orders than the company anticipated in several major markets, according to DigiTimes, with display chip suppliers hoping its reception will boost investment in foldable devices.
Sources in the display driver industry believe the iPhone Duo could give other smartphone makers greater confidence in foldables, expanding the market for OLED touch and display driver integration, known as TDDI. The technology combines the electronics responsible for touch sensing and display control.
According to the sources, cost remains an obstacle to introducing OLED TDDI technology in traditional flagship smartphones this year. It is considered to be a technical requirement for foldables, however, giving chipmakers a route to increased shipments even if adoption elsewhere remains limited.
The report also identifies Apple's rumored touchscreen MacBook as a possible catalyst for investment in notebook displays. Adding touch capabilities creates opportunities to sell more sophisticated components, such as integrated touch and display drivers and timing controllers, which coordinate display operation.
The sources expect rival manufacturers could adopt similar display technologies in response to Apple's new products, generating business for companies outside Apple's supply chain. That prospect comes as the industry faces subdued consumer demand during the second half of 2026.
DigiTimes also suggests demand for the iPhone Duo could cushion the impact of softer iPhone 18 Pro sales.
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