The iPhone 17 family launching later this year might feature LTPO OLEDs, giving them access to high refresh rates, but there is still a ton of underlying technology that has yet to arrive to these devices, such as tandem OLED. Fortunately, since the M4 iPad Pro models offer this hardware upgrade, a new report states that Apple is contemplating bringing the same panels to the iPhone, which will deliver a bevy of improvements. Unfortunately, since the development of these displays has yet to start, it could be a few years before tandem OLED debuts in iPhones.
New report dives into Apple’s mass production plans, stating that the company can only bring tandem OLED to iPhones two years after development is completed
To recap, tandem OLED technology stacks two or more layers on top of each other, with this approach improving overall brightness, efficiency, and lifespan. The adoption of these panels also reduces the risk of burn-in, which is a major pitfall of OLED screens, despite their many advantages. According to The Elec, Apple has yet to commence development of this technology for the iPhone, meaning that it will take the Cupertino firm at least two years to mass produce these displays.
So far, Apple’s supply chain for iPhone panels includes Samsung and LG, with both fulfilling orders at a larger scale, though BOE has a minor role to play. Even if both manufacturers agreed to commence development of tandem OLEDs today, the report mentions that the implementation would occur after 2028. However, given that iPhone shipments are in the millions, Samsung and LG would likely not want to miss out on this golden opportunity.
Earlier, on the topic of mass producing tandem OLED for the iPad Pro, Samsung reportedly agreed to become Apple’s supplier if the latter placed a large enough order, hinting that it was a matter of profitability for the manufacturer. Since iPad Pro models are shipped in significantly fewer numbers, the thought of making pennies while investing millions in production facilities was not a favorable outcome for Samsung.
However, the story is completely different when talking about iPhones. At this time, the report does not mention any Apple partner who has agreed to begin development. Perhaps we will find out later, so stay tuned for more updates.
News Source: The Elec
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