September 18, 2024

Apple to Switch to OLED for iPhone SE 4, Marking the End of LCDs for iPhones [Report]

Posted September 3, 2024 at 2:00pm by iClarified · 3664 views
Apple has decided to switch to OLED display panels for the upcoming iPhone SE 4, signaling the end of LCD use for all iPhone models, according to a new report from Nikkei Asia.

This shift will exclude Japanese panel suppliers Japan Display (JDI) and Sharp from Apple's iPhone supply chain. A decade ago, these companies supplied 70% of the displays for iPhones, but as Apple transitioned to OLED technology, their share in the iPhone display market has steadily declined.

According to multiple sources, Apple has begun placing orders for OLED displays for the upcoming iPhone SE from China's BOE Technology Group and South Korea's LG Display. This change marks the end of LCDs in iPhones, with the SE model scheduled for release in next year also featuring an OLED display, along with standard-priced iPhone models and premium Pro models.

Currently, Samsung supplies about half the OLED panels for iPhone, followed by LG at 30% and BOE around 20%. Since JDI and Sharp do not pass produce OLED displays for smartphones, their supply of LCDs is expected to end when Apple discontinues the iPhone SE 3.

JDI has recorded net losses for 10 straight years and is now focused on LCDs for automotive applications. Sharp has decided to scale back its LCD business and recently ceased operations at its Sakai plant in Osaka and reduced capacity at its Kameyama plant in Mie prefecture.

More details in the full report linked below...

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