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The first tandem OLED screen technology was introduced by Apple with its M4 iPad Pro models, bringing significant benefits. The company is exploring the possibility of adding this technology to iPhones but it will take a few years for the transition. According to recent reports, LG, one of Apple’s display suppliers, wants Apple to adopt tandem OLEDs sooner rather than later. This move likely aims at benefiting from mass-producing millions of units for future iPhone models.
Samsung faced challenges in scaling up production of tandem OLED panels for its latest iPad Pro models due to the high costs involved. Current iPhones use LTPO technology, which adjusts their refresh rate between 10Hz and 120Hz, improving efficiency depending on usage. Adding tandem OLED would enhance these benefits but Apple has not yet decided whether to mass-produce these panels.
LG is preparing for this transition by making significant investments in production facilities. The company hopes that adopting tandem OLED technology will improve brightness, efficiency, and panel lifespan. Even if LG’s intentions are pure, it stands to gain from the large volume of iPhone units featuring tandem OLEDs, typically sold in millions.
It took Samsung a long time to start full-scale production for the M4 iPad Pro series because Apple had to place a substantial order first. The profitability factor is crucial for manufacturers when deciding to invest millions in production facilities. This might explain why LG may not develop similar technology for other Apple product lines, which do not match the iPhone’s annual volume.
If Apple agrees to this transition, the earliest we could see tandem OLED in an iPhone would be 2028. Moreover, this technology is unlikely to appear in foldable models due to the numerous complexities involved. However, let us hope for future advancements.
