iPhone 17 Pro Could Ditch Samsung and LG Screens in One Country

Key Takeaways

1. Apple typically uses South Korean firms, primarily Samsung and LG, for Pro model displays, while other models may use more affordable LTPS OLED screens from Chinese manufacturer BOE.
2. BOE might start producing higher-end ProMotion displays for the upcoming iPhone 17 series, potentially marking a significant change in Apple’s display sourcing.
3. The inclusion of BOE’s LTPO OLED screens in Pro models is currently expected to be limited to devices sold in China.
4. Mass production of BOE screens is anticipated to be approved by the end of July, indicating they are close to meeting Apple’s quality standards.
5. Most displays for the iPhone 17 series will still come from South Korea, with Samsung and LG projected to supply the majority of panels.

The distinction has always been quite clear: The two Pro models in Apple’s yearly iPhone lineup feature screens made by South Korean firms – mainly Samsung, with LG playing a smaller role – while the other models, like the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, sometimes incorporate more affordable LTPS OLED screens from Chinese manufacturers, notably BOE, which is based in Beijing.

Possible Changes Ahead

Recently, there have been some mentions about BOE potentially getting the chance to produce Apple’s higher-end ProMotion displays. However, Apple’s strict quality control has been a hurdle – until now, it seems. According to sources from the supply chain, the South Korean publication DealSite has reported that the upcoming iPhone 17 series could be the first to tentatively include BOE’s LTPO OLED screens in its Pro models. As of now, this change looks to be limited to devices sold specifically in China.

Production Timeline

It’s anticipated that the mass production of these BOE screens will be approved by the end of July. The small scale for this country-specific launch indicates that BOE may not fully satisfy Apple’s standards yet, but they are reportedly very close. Additionally, the publication suggests that involving another display supplier might be part of Apple’s tactic to encourage its South Korean partners to lower their component prices – a possibility that seems reasonable given the existing tariff issues. Still, most displays for the iPhone 17 series are expected to continue coming from South Korea, with projections of Samsung and LG providing 70 million and 43 million panels, respectively.

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