Samsung Display will be the sole supplier of the initial batch of 11-inch OLED panels that Apple will use on its future iPads, TheElec has learned.
Meanwhile, LG Display is the exclusive supplier for the first batch of 13-inch OLED panels that will also be used on the bigger iPad model.
Cupertino plans to introduce two models of OLED iPads this year, one with a screen size of 11 inches and the other with 13 inches.
LG Display was sought as the supplier for both sizes but it won’t be making the initial batch of 11-inch OLED panels, sources said. Samsung Display was always considered for the 11-inch OLED panels alone, at least for the first batches, they added.
Samsung Display and LG Display have already started production of the panels; as these are for initial batches, Apple could change suppliers for later batches.
Both display panel suppliers are struggling with securing stable yield rates, likely the main cause of how the iPhone maker placed its orders.
OLED panels are yet to be used widely in tablets and notebooks and Apple’s introduction of iPads sporting the panel will likely expand the market.