Apple Aims to Overtake Samsung as the World’s Largest Buyer of AMOLED Panels in 2021

According to Saed News, citing Digiato, a recent report from DigiTimes indicates that Apple equipped the entire iPhone 12 lineup with AMOLED displays last year and plans to do the same for the iPhone 13 family. Based on data from research firm Omdia, Apple is projected to purchase 169 million iPhone panels in 2021, a significant increase from 114 million units the previous year.

The report further states that total AMOLED panel purchases are expected to rise from 152 million in 2020 to 157 million in 2021. Samsung Display will remain the largest supplier of AMOLED panels for Apple, likely providing 110 million units. Meanwhile, LG is expected to supply 50 million panels, and BOE will contribute 9 million.

LTPO Technology Coming to Pro Models

As with last year’s iPhone 12 lineup, all iPhone 13 models will feature AMOLED displays. However, only the Pro and Pro Max variants will be equipped with LTPO (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide) technology.

LTPO panels offer two key advantages:

1. Higher refresh rates for smoother performance

2. Lower power consumption, enhancing battery efficiency and enabling features like an always-on display

Rumors have been circulating since last year that the iPhone 13 Pro models will support 120Hz ProMotion refresh rates. Reports suggest that Apple considered using LTPO displays for the iPhone 12 Pro lineup but ultimately prioritized 5G connectivity as the main selling point instead.

Ross Young, a well-known display industry analyst, recently confirmed that both the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max will indeed launch with 120Hz LTPO displays this year.