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How Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro and Foldable iPhone Will Significantly Benefit Samsung
Samsung has an extra reason to closely watch the launch of Apple’s new iPhones this year. The South Korean tech giant is poised to supply a substantial portion of the OLED screens for these devices, with the situation surrounding the first foldable iPhone looking particularly promising for Samsung.
Samsung to Ramp Up OLED Screen Production for New iPhones
Both Samsung Display and LG Display are significantly increasing their production of OLED panels, specifically for Apple’s upcoming smartphones. This includes the rumored iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models, as well as Apple’s much-anticipated first foldable device, potentially dubbed the iPhone Duo. For display manufacturers, the end of the year is shaping up to be exceptionally busy, as this period traditionally sees orders for display panels reach their peak levels.
For the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, Samsung Display and LG Display are expected to share the supply burden. Previously, Chinese firm BOE was also part of this elite group but has reportedly ceased supplying screens for the Pro models. This change is attributed to BOE’s challenges in meeting Apple’s stringent requirements for LTPO Plus technology, which is crucial for advanced power efficiency and variable refresh rates in high-end displays.
Foldable iPhone: A Game-Changer for Samsung Display
The truly significant opportunity for Samsung, however, appears to be the foldable iPhone. Samsung Display is slated to be the exclusive supplier of OLED panels for this revolutionary device under a three-year agreement. This exclusivity is particularly vital because a foldable Apple smartphone will demand far more sophisticated and innovative display solutions compared to conventional iPhone models. The engineering involved in creating durable, flexible screens that meet Apple’s quality standards is immense, positioning Samsung at the forefront of this technological advancement.
Analysts suggest that the cost of the two panels required to create a single foldable iPhone could be approximately 330 US dollars per device. In stark contrast, a display for the standard iPhone 18 Pro Max is estimated to cost around 70 US dollars. This colossal price difference vividly illustrates why Apple’s first foldable smartphone could represent a far more lucrative business venture for Samsung than its traditional iPhone display contracts.
The Expanding Foldable Screen Market
The entire market for foldable screens is also on a trajectory of significant growth. Counterpoint Research forecasts that by 2026, global shipments of panels for foldable devices will reach an impressive 27.5 million units. This projection indicates a robust year-over-year growth of 24%. Furthermore, the total value of this specialized market is expected to surge by 48%, reaching approximately 4.4 billion US dollars. This expansion underscores the long-term potential and strategic importance of Samsung’s involvement in foldable display technology.
Samsung’s Strategic Investments and Future Outlook
Samsung Display had already anticipated improved financial results in the latter half of the year. The manufacturer has also re-committed to investments in mobile OLED screens and is planning to open a new production facility within its Asan complex. For Samsung, the launch of new iPhones, especially the foldable model, represents far more than just a competitor’s event. It’s a prime opportunity to significantly boost revenues from one of the most critical and high-value components of Apple’s devices, solidifying its position as a dominant force in the global display market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Samsung Display and LG Display are the primary suppliers for the OLED panels used in the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models. Chinese firm BOE was previously a supplier but is no longer providing panels for the Pro series due to difficulties in meeting Apple’s specific technological requirements, particularly for LTPO Plus technology.
The foldable iPhone is expected to be highly profitable for Samsung because the advanced, complex foldable OLED panels are significantly more expensive to produce than standard smartphone screens. Estimates suggest the two panels needed for a foldable iPhone could cost around 330 US dollars, whereas a standard iPhone 18 Pro Max display costs approximately 70 US dollars. Additionally, Samsung Display is reportedly the exclusive supplier for these panels under a multi-year agreement.
LTPO (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide) Plus is an advanced display technology that allows for variable refresh rates, enabling screens to dynamically adjust their refresh rate based on the content being displayed. This technology is crucial for improving power efficiency in high-end smartphones like the iPhone Pro models, as it allows for smoother scrolling and more efficient battery usage without sacrificing visual quality.
According to Counterpoint Research, the global market for foldable screen panels is projected to see substantial growth. By 2026, shipments are expected to reach 27.5 million units, representing a 24% year-over-year increase. The market’s total value is also anticipated to grow significantly, reaching approximately 4.4 billion US dollars, a 48% increase.
Source: Sammy Fans. Opening photo: Apple press materials
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