Apple’s OLED move deals major blow to Sharp and Japan Display

• Apple begins to source OLED panels from companies such as BOE Technology of China and LG Display of South Korea.

Apple’s decision to transition entirely to organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays for all iPhone models starting in 2025 marks a significant technological advancement for the company.

The shift, as reported by Nikkei, signifies the end of liquid crystal displays (LCDs) for Apple, which has been a staple in its lower-end models.

While this move promises enhanced display quality, it will also disrupt the long-standing business relationships with Japanese suppliers Japan Display (JDI) and Sharp, who primarily provide LCD technology.

Since the introduction of the iPhone 12 series, Apple has embraced OLED technology for its smartphones, barring the SE models.

The technology not only allows for more vibrant colours and better contrast but also caters to users seeking enhanced visual experiences.

The Pro and Pro Max models, in particular, showcase Apple’s ProMotion OLED technology, which supports a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, offering smoother visuals compared to the standard rates of 60Hz or 90Hz found in non-Pro devices.

Superior colour fidelity

The appeal of OLED over LCD is largely attributed to its superior colour fidelity and contrast ratios, making it the preferred choice for high-definition content consumption.

Recognising this trend, many manufacturers in the television and smartphone sectors are likewise favouring OLED displays.

Apple has begun to source OLED panels from companies such as BOE Technology of China and LG Display of South Korea, further signaling its commitment to this technology.

Moreover, the industry landscape has shifted significantly; a decade ago, Sharp and Japan Display accounted for a combined 70 per cent of iPhone screen suppliers, predominantly providing LCD panels.

However, their inability to mass-produce OLED displays has left them at a disadvantage as Apple pivots toward this cutting-edge technology.

Apple’s journey with OLED began with the launch of the iPhone X in 2017, progressively expanding to premium models and, more recently, its latest generation iPad Pro.

The phasing out of LCD displays represents not only a technological evolution but also a strategic redirection towards enhancing the user experience across its ecosystem.

As Apple embraces OLED, it reaffirms its position as a leader in innovation, while also reshaping its supply chain dynamics amidst an increasingly competitive market.