Apple Considering Tandem OLED for iPhones, LG Prepares for 2028 Launch

Apple is reportedly being pursued by LG to adopt tandem OLED technology in its iPhones, with a potential launch date as far off as 2028. Tandem OLED first made its debut with Apple’s M4 iPad Pro models, bringing a host of impressive benefits to the table. Now, LG, one of Apple’s display suppliers, is pushing for Apple to adopt the technology in future iPhone models, possibly because of the potential for significant profits from large-scale production. However, Apple has yet to make any firm decisions on whether or not to mass-produce these panels for the iPhone.

Currently, iPhones are equipped with LTPO (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide) technology, which allows for refresh rates ranging from 10Hz to 120Hz, helping optimize energy usage depending on the activity at hand.

Tandem OLED could take this efficiency even further, enhancing brightness, lifespan, and power consumption. The technology itself works by stacking multiple OLED layers on top of one another, providing several performance benefits.

LG’s interest in pushing Apple to adopt this new tech is clear: mass production of tandem OLED panels for iPhones would be a lucrative venture, given the massive sales numbers Apple consistently achieves. However, even with LG’s strong push, Apple has yet to make a decision. A report from Dealsite, sourced by tipster @Jukanlosreve, indicates that LG is preparing to invest heavily in production facilities, although the exact amount is not disclosed. But even if LG is ready, Apple’s decision will hinge on whether the profitability of producing millions of these screens for iPhones makes sense for the company.

In contrast to other Apple product lines, the iPhone’s sheer production volume makes it the only realistic candidate for tandem OLED implementation. For example, it took Samsung years to begin full-scale production of these panels for the M4 iPad Pro due to the size of Apple’s order. This could explain why LG has not considered tandem OLED for other Apple devices – none of them come close to the iPhone’s production numbers.

If Apple does choose to transition to tandem OLED, it is unlikely to happen before 2028. Moreover, it is important to note that this technology will probably not be used in foldable devices, due to the complex challenges involved. However, all eyes are on future releases, hoping that this breakthrough will eventually make its way into the foldable iPhone models.