Apple is expected to begin shifting its iPhones from LCD displays to improved OLED screens as of 2018. The OLED display technology, which is currently only in use on the Apple Watch, benefits from greater contrast levels and much deeper blacks as the display only illuminates to present color. This offers energy efficiency that leads to improved battery life compared lighting up the entire display each time.
Current rumors state that Apple has notified its suppliers that it wants to move to OLED iPhones in 2018, but adds that a mix of LCD and OLED iPhones are expected initially due to iPhone demand and OLED production limitations. Apple is apparently weighing how well OLED displays hold up over time versus LCD displays before committing to the switch. Both Samsung and LG, which currently produce OLED panels, are expected to be primary suppliers of OLEDs for iPhones, which would negatively impact current LDC display partners Sharp and Japan Display.
The report follows up on a recent research note from reliable supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo of KGI, which similarly concluded that Apple will not be switching from LCD to OLED displays in iPhones in 2016 or 2017. KGI noted that iPhone manufacturer Foxconn has invested US$4 billion into a new LCD display plant, and low yield rates currently prevent Apple from making the jump any time soon.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
Via 9to5Mac and Nikkei Asian Review
One reply on “Rumor: Apple to migrate devices from LCD displays to OLED displays in 2018”
RT @JasonOGrady: Rumor: Apple to migrate devices from LCD displays to OLED displays in 2018 https://t.co/tGd4gG3fo6