Apple could transition all iPhone models to OLED displays starting next year. This change will include the iPhone SE 4, which previously used LCD screens, marking the end of LCDs in iPhones.
New OLED Suppliers
According to Nikkei Asia, Apple has placed orders for OLED screens with China’s BOE Technology Group and South Korea’s LG Display for the iPhone SE.
This decision means that Japanese suppliers Japan Display (JDI) and Sharp, who once held a significant share of the LCD market, will no longer be involved in iPhone display production.
Market Share and Impact
A decade ago, JDI and Sharp provided 70% of iPhone displays, but their role has diminished as Apple shifted to OLED for premium models.
Currently, Samsung Electronics dominates the OLED market for iPhones, holding about 50%, LG Display has 30%, and BOE has around 20%.
JDI and Sharp do not mass-produce OLED screens and will lose their LCD supply role as the older iPhone SE models are discontinued.
Historical Context and Shift to OLED
Apple first adopted OLED screens with the iPhone X in 2017, moving away from LCDs for higher-end models.
As of 2023, JDI and Sharp’s LCD supply to Apple had dropped significantly, from nearly 200 million annually in 2015 to around 20 million. Market researcher Omdia predicts that OLED panels will surpass LCDs in shipments for smartphones this year.
Japanese Manufacturers’ Adjustments
JDI, previously reliant on Apple for 60% of its revenue, is now adjusting its business strategy. The company is focusing on LCDs for automotive applications and producing small OLED screens for devices like the Apple Watch.
Sharp has also scaled back its LCD operations, closing one plant and reducing output at another.
Expansion Beyond iPhones
Apple’s commitment to OLED extends to other products, including the latest iPad Pro models, introduced in May. This shift highlights the industry’s preference for OLED technology, known for its vibrant colors and high contrast, ideal for HD content.
Future Outlook
If Apple maintains this strategy, future iPhone models, including the upcoming iPhone 16 series set to be unveiled on September 9th, could feature OLED displays, continuing the company’s trend of using advanced display technology across its product line.