Apple is reportedly considering using tandem OLED technology for future iPhones.
That’s according to Korean tech website The Elec (via AppleInsider), which cites sources claiming that Apple had spoken with LG Display about a “simplified tandem OLED” as early as 2024. Apple is allegedly discussing this technology with its other display partner, Samsung Display, for potential use in its smartphones.
Tandem OLED tech stacks two OLED panels on top of each other for increased brightness and dynamic range. Since OLED is self-illuminating (i.e., there is no backlight), it allows for thinner panels that are more energy efficient.
Apple will use a simplified tandem OLED panel, which is reportedly easier to manufacture since it doesn’t double up the pixels, according to the report.
However, it still has two layers stacked on top of each other. Regardless, this simplified tandem OLED panel will still have the benefits of the technology, namely a brighter and more energy-efficient display.
The Elec reports that Apple hasn’t committed to using tandem OLED panels for iPhones, but the company is still in discussions with the aforementioned partners about utilizing the technology. The report claims that Apple might partner with LG Display, but it wants other partners to get on board before moving forward. If this happens, however, we might not see the first tandem OLED iPhone until 2028 at the earliest.
It would be interesting if iPhones potentially utilize tandem OLED before Samsung's Galaxy phones, given that the latter is developing tandem OLED panels for cars (via The Elec). So far, we haven't heard anything about Galaxy phones with tandem OLED panels. If Apple beats Samsung to the punch, it would give the company's phones a serious edge over its main competitor.
As always with these kinds of reports, take everything written above with a healthy dose of skepticism. That said, The Elec has a decent track record with industry scoops, so we don’t want to completely dismiss this latest report.
Given how Apple already uses a tandem OLED panel in the iPad Pro M4, it wouldn’t be surprising if said technology makes its way to iPhones. If we hear anything more about this, we’ll keep you posted!
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