Bloomberg reports that Apple has big plans to reduce its reliance on screen suppliers. Turned to develop the equipment parts by yourself. Samsung and LG will phase out microLED screens by 2024, starting with the Apple Watch first, followed by the iPhone later.
According to insiders, Apple aims to replace the display. It’s a self-developed screen for the high-end Apple Watch by the end of next year. After that, follow it to the iPhone.
This approach will allow Apple to control the design. and determine the capabilities of the product more As it used to stop using Intel to design chips. And turn to design the chip itself, which is the M1
On the Samsung side, it is a technology company that is good at both software and hardware. It has a wide range of electronic products, including mobile phones, smart TVs, electrical appliances. And there’s also the Display business, where Samsung is a supplier to Apple, although the two are in fierce competition in the mobile market. Samsung is also reportedly the main supplier of the screens in the iPhone 14.
LG also makes screens, and Apple is a key partner, accounting for 36% of LG Display’s revenue. In addition to Samsung and LG, Apple also uses screen suppliers from other companies like Japan Display. Inc., Sharp Corp. and BOE Technology Group Co.
In addition to the screen It is also reported that Apple will develop its own modem chips. as a key piece of communication, reducing dependence on Qualcomm and Broadcom
So it’s an eye-catching move for Apple as it’s a huge change in suppliers. and the trend is more self-reliant
Apple has been looking to reduce its reliance on third-party screens since 2018, codenamed T159, and aims to switch to larger microLED displays as early as 2020, but it ran into technical issues. Instead, focus on the small screen on the Apple Watch device.
In addition, research budgets for new technologies It’s a big budget for Apple. By 2022 alone, the company has invested $ 26 billion in research such as car systems, headsets, health software. And the screen is also part of this budget.
Although Apple designs the display itself But it is likely to rely on external suppliers for production anyway. But it’s not too difficult. The company has a 62,000-square-foot facility in Santa Clara, California, just 15 minutes from Apple Park headquarters.
source: Bloomberg 1 2, 9to5Mac