Apple is expected to boost LG Display’s performance by increasing the adoption of organic light emitting diode (OLED) displays.
According to market research firm Omdia on Nov. 12, Apple is planning to incorporate OLED panels in its upcoming 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models. They are expected to be released in the second quarter of next year.
It has been reported that Apple has placed orders for 60 percent of the 10 million OLED panels intended for iPads with LG Display. LG Display is expected to initiate the initial production for iPad supplies in the first quarter of next year at its 6th generation line in Paju City, Gyeonggi Province.
While the selling price of OLED panels for iPads is approximately three times higher than those used in iPhones and other smartphones, analysis suggests that considering factors such as size and cost, it will still contribute significantly to profitability despite the smaller order volume. For LG Display, which has been facing ongoing losses, this development is considered a positive sign.
Furthermore, Apple’s adoption of OLED displays is expected to expand gradually, starting with the iPhone 15. Apple is also pursuing the integration of OLED screens in its 2026 MacBook and foldable iPad models.
With Apple incorporating OLED panels into tablets and laptops, it is expected that the IT OLED market will rapidly expand. There is a significant likelihood that other competitors will also increase their OLED product offerings in response to this trend.
According to the “IT OLED Technology and Industry Trends Analysis Report” by UBI Research, the shipment volume of OLED displays for tablets, laptops, and monitors is projected to grow at an annual average rate of 41 percent, reaching an estimated 31 million units by 2027.
With the expansion of the OLED market, LG Display’s financial performance is expected to gain momentum. According to financial information firm FnGuide, LG Display is projected to report an operating loss of 2.56 trillion won (US$1.94 billion) this year. However, with the commencement of OLED supplies for iPads next year, a profit of 109.4 billion won is anticipated. It is further forecasted that the company’s profit could increase to 659.5 billion won by 2025.