Apple is accelerating its transition to OLED displays across its iPad portfolio, starting with the recently launched 2024 iPad Pro models. This shift is fueling production ramps among its key panel suppliers, with significant dynamics emerging between the major players.
Based on recent market analysis, LG Display (LGD) has secured a dominant position in supplying the advanced OLED panels for Apple’s new 2024 iPad Pro lineup, significantly outpacing Samsung Display (SDC). Data from market research indicates that LGD is projected to account for over 65% of the total OLED panel shipments for these latest iPads.
Supplier Dynamics for 2024 OLED iPads
Apple introduced its first OLED iPad models, the 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro, in the second quarter of 2024. This marks a crucial step in bringing the vibrant contrast and deep blacks of OLED technology to the iPad series.
LG Display’s Strong Position: LGD is manufacturing OLED panels for both the 11-inch and the larger 13-inch iPad Pro models. Critically, LGD is currently the sole supplier for the higher-volume 13-inch version, which contributed to higher shipment volumes compared to the 11-inch panels in the initial months (February to May 2024). LGD’s lead is attributed to this sole-supplier status for the larger model and its increased production capacity for the 11-inch panel.
Samsung Display’s Challenges: In contrast, SDC is reportedly only supplying panels for the 11-inch iPad Pro. Industry sources suggest that SDC encountered technical difficulties, particularly related to the sophisticated 2-stack tandem structure used in these new OLED panels, which layers two light-emitting stacks for enhanced brightness and longevity.
- BOE’s Absence: While not detailed in the specific market data summary, the focus on LGD and SDC as the primary suppliers for this initial OLED iPad generation implies that BOE, another major display manufacturer, has not secured a significant supply position, aligning with earlier reports suggesting they were “left in the dust” for this critical production phase.
- www.digitimes.com
- www.digitimes.com
- www.digitimes.com
Apple’s Requirements and Future Outlook
While the shift to OLED represents a technological leap for the iPad, some industry observers in South Korea have noted concerns regarding the reportedly stringent requirements Apple has placed on its panel partners. There is speculation that as the market outlook for the new OLED iPads evolves, Apple might be setting demanding terms that could shift potential responsibility for shipment volumes onto suppliers like LGD and SDC.
As Apple continues its long-term plan to transition more iPad models to OLED technology, potentially including new versions in the latter half of 2025 as previously reported, the competitive landscape between LGD and SDC will likely continue to evolve. However, for the crucial 2024 launch, LG Display has clearly emerged as the dominant panel supplier.
