Samsung Display and LG Display are still working on an OLED panel for iPhones featuring a “zero-bezel” design, as reported by The Elec. Initially planned for Apple’s 2025-2026 iPhone lineup, this technology is still under development and encountering several challenges, including ongoing technical discussions and testing between Apple and its South Korean suppliers.
Apple’s Vision for Zero-Bezel OLED
Apple envisions a seamless design for its iPhones, where the screen edges flow smoothly to the sides, similar to the Apple Watch display. In this design, the screen is flat with rectangular angles but wraps around the edges, creating a more immersive look.
Unlike earlier curved or edged displays seen in Samsung’s Galaxy smartphones or Xiaomi’s 2021 concept phone, Apple’s design does not intend for the flowed-down sections to act as functional screen areas.
Technical Challenges Slowing Progress
To achieve this vision, Samsung Display and LG Display face significant hurdles in perfecting several key technologies:
- Thin Film Encapsulation: This technology is essential for ensuring the durability and flexibility of the screen edges.
- Optical Clear Adhesive (OCA): OCA is crucial for binding the layers of the screen, but current versions cause visual distortions when viewed from the side.
In addition, integrating antennas within the edges of the zero-bezel panel remains an unresolved issue. The slow progress in OCA technology, in particular, has contributed to delays in the development process.
Samsung’s Recent Developments
Despite the challenges, Samsung Display and LG Display are collaborating to bring Apple’s zero-bezel OLED vision to life. As of August 2024, Samsung Display revealed that it is developing concept models for under-panel cameras and zero-bezel OLED displays. However, these advancements remain in the early stages of development.
Timeline Uncertainty
Given the ongoing technological hurdles, it seems unlikely that Apple will meet its original 2025 or 2026 release targets for iPhones with these advanced OLED panels. While progress is being made, a launch within the initially expected timeframe now appears increasingly uncertain.