With the next-gen Apple iPhone, various hardware manufacturers go head-to-head for a coveted spot as a critical parts producer. The position most are are eyeing is the role of screen supplier for the next-gen Apple iPhone display.
Samsung, currently occupying that very seat, is in a precarious position right now. Already, display industry stalwarts – LG and Sharp – are gearing up to snatch that role. At press time, the two are in the midst of developing new OLED technologies for the next-gen Apple iPhone display.
Isn’t it funny how bitter rivals in the ICT industry are able to become productive collaborators in specific segments?
According to Digitimes, LG Display is now bidding to become the second OLED supplier for Apple. Sources within Taiwan’s Photonic Industry and Technology Development Association (PIDA) have confirmation on what LG is planning.
In addition, Sharp is mounting similar efforts as it pushes out its flexible OLED concepts onto its own premium smartphones. The move is doubly ironic somewhat since Sharp’s new owner, Foxconn Electronics, has a foothold within the Apple manufacturing process. Of course, it is also using the same tech in its own next-gen line of mobile devices.
There is no official word from Cupertino if LG or Sharp has put in bids or will make the cut. Even so, both have nothing to lose since many are expecting an oversupply for this marketspace.
At this point, both stand a higher chance to lock in such a role. In LG’s case, it is mostly due to its position as a primary supplier of displays for Apple TVs. As for Sharp, as a Foxconn subsidiary, it is logical that the Apple supply chain would include the Japanese panel-maker.
