The iPhone 20, set for release in 2027, is rumored to feature a groundbreaking four-sided bending, bezel-less display with components housed behind the screen, requiring significant modifications by LG and Samsung to their production lines, with LG investing nearly $300 million to prepare for this new design.
Apple is facing challenges with its iPhone 16 panel suppliers as it seeks to reduce the bezel sizes, particularly the bottom bezel, which requires hiding circuitry and addressing heat dissipation issues. LG Display is turning to multiple sources for Display Driver IC chips to reduce costs and increase competition, while Samsung Display remains the top supplier despite LG Display's expected increase in orders. BOE, another panel supplier, sources DDI chips from LX Semicon, and Samsung Display obtains its chips from Samsung Electronics System LSI.
Samsung Galaxy S24 owners have reported new display issues, including a grainy texture and horizontal bars when viewing dark and gray colors, prompting concerns about the phone's hardware or software. While these problems don't seem widespread, affected users have been offered free replacements by Samsung. The company has acknowledged the issues and is working on updates to address them, similar to teething problems experienced by other smartphone launches.
Apple is reportedly planning to refresh its major product lines, including the iPad Pro, MacBook Air, and iPad Air, by the end of March. The updates are said to include new OLED models for the iPad Pro, a new design, and updated accessories. The MacBook Air is also expected to receive M3 refreshes, with the 13-inch model already in production overseas. These refreshes are anticipated to begin shipping at the end of March, coinciding with a potential spring launch event.
Samsung remains the largest foldable phone maker globally, with a 72% market share in Q3 2023. However, competition is intensifying, and its market share is expected to drop to 42% in Q4 2023 due to the launch of newer and better-specced foldable phones from rival brands. Huawei and Honor rank second and third, respectively. Additionally, Chinese firm BOE is predicted to surpass Samsung Display as the biggest foldable OLED maker in Q4 2023, with a market share of over 45%.
Apple supplier BOE is facing light leakage issues on its OLED panels for the iPhone 15, resulting in lower yields and potential supply constraints. BOE failed to meet Apple's production standards, leading to the cancellation of orders. Samsung, another OLED panel supplier for Apple, poses a threat to BOE's market share. BOE may not receive production approval from Apple for the iPhone 15 lineup, impacting its revenue. The focus now shifts to the iPhone 16 lineup, which is expected to feature larger OLED displays.
Samsung Display has received additional OLED panel orders from Apple for the upcoming iPhone 15 series after Chinese firm BOE failed Apple's quality tests. BOE's OLED panels have previously failed to meet Apple's strict standards, leading to increased reliance on Samsung Display. As a result, Samsung Display is now the sole supplier of OLED panels for all four iPhone 15 models. The iPhone 15 series is expected to feature USB Type-C ports, improved cameras, and larger batteries, and will be unveiled during an upcoming press event.
Apple is considering the use of micro-lens technology in the OLED panels of the iPhone 16 models to increase brightness and reduce power consumption. The technology, offered by Apple display suppliers Samsung and LG, uses a pattern of lenses inside the panel to reduce internal reflections and redirect light towards the screen. While this can increase perceived brightness and maintain power consumption, it may also narrow the display's field of view. The decision depends on the efficiency of the OLED material set and whether it can meet Apple's standards.