ICH to More Than Double Q4 Supply for Apple’s iPhone Duo, Riding Launch Demand

ICH Co., Ltd., a Korean materials supplier, anticipates a substantial rise in demand for its products following the launch of Apple's first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo. On October 23, the company revealed that its supply volume for the device in the fourth quarter would more than double its initial projections due to unexpectedly robust sales.

ICH's primary contribution to the iPhone Duo is polyethylene (PE) foam, which offers shock absorption and enhances the device's folding durability. The company attributes this surge in orders to its product excellence and vertically integrated manufacturing capabilities, enabling rapid responses to customer demands.

The iPhone Duo made its debut on October 23, following a pre-order frenzy that reportedly depleted initial inventory. Experts predict shipments of Apple's foldable phones could reach around 14 million units by next year. Consequently, ICH projects its monthly PE foam supply for the fourth quarter to reach approximately 2 billion won.

The company's strategic advantage lies in its dual supply to tech giants Apple and Samsung Electronics, both significant players in the global foldable smartphone market. ICH also caters to Samsung by supplying cushioning polyurethane foam and electromagnetic interference-shielding gaskets for their Galaxy Z8 series.

ICH's diversification into key materials for flagship foldable models from both Apple and Samsung positions the company for further growth as the market expands. The company is bolstering its status as an advanced IT materials and components supplier through its environmentally friendly technologies. ICH's product lineup includes RF gaskets that protect electronic components from electromagnetic interference, along with high-performance cushioning foam for internal protection.

An industry source highlights that materials enhancing durability are crucial for foldable phones, given their complex structure, and that improved device sales can lead to increased demand for component materials. A representative from ICH reports a rapid increase in demand for the company's materials following the iPhone Duo's successful launch, and expects this trend to continue as it continues to supply essential materials to both Apple and Samsung Electronics.