Apple to Select Samsung as Main Supplier of OLED Panels for 2026 iPad Air [Report]

Apple is likely to select Samsung as the main supplier of OLED panels for the 2026 iPad Air, according to a new report from The Elec.

The company is purportedly considering technologies such as low-temperature polysilicon (LTPS) thin-film transistors (TFT) and single-stack OLED with a single emitting layer for the iPad Air.

This year, Apple applied LTPO TFT and two-stack tandem OLED to the iPad Pro OLED. LTPO adds an additional mask process compared to LTPS, increasing manufacturing costs and lowering production yield. In two-stack tandem OLEDs, a charge generation layer (CGL) must be created separately between the emitting layers. LG Display has an advantage in mass production experience for two-stack tandem and the necessary CGL, but this advantage is lost in the iPad Air. An industry insider predicted, "Apple will prefer Samsung Display, which can stably produce large volumes of OLEDs, for the OLED iPad Air to increase sales."


The report notes that LG is trying to sell its LCD plant in Guangzhou, China. This sale could increase its cash reserves, leading to additional investment in OLED production and perhaps improving its chances of landing iPad Air orders.

Meanwhile, the Elec notes that LG is leading Samsung in supply of OLED panels for the new iPad Pro, as Samsung is only providing OLEDs for the 11-inch model. Shipments for the iPad Pro are forecasted below 8 million units for 2024, down from an initial forecast of around 10 million units last year.

Alongside a new iPad Air, Apple could unveil a new iPad mini and a foldable device in 2026. Please download the iClarified app or follow iClarified on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and RSS for more iPad updates!

*The new M2 iPad Air is on sale for $50 off today.