iPhone won’t get an AMOLED screen any year soon

By

The iPhone isn't ditching LCD screens.
The iPhone isn't ditching LCD screens.
Photo: Jim Merithew/Cult of Mac

Apple soothsayer Ming Chi-Kuo told investors today that despite recent rumors that the next iPhone will feature an AMOLED display, the reality is Apple isn’t likely to adopt the technology anytime soon.

The Apple Watch was the first device out of Cupertino to feature an AMOLED screen which led some to believe the iPhone would get one next. According to the respected Apple analyst though, the iPhone will continue to use TFT-LCD display technology for at least the next three years.

Kuo cites Foxconn’s plan to invest in advanced LCD production lines in China until 2018 as the top reason why the iPhone will keep using LCDs.

“Based on recent comments by Minebea, one of the main iPhone backlight unit suppliers, we believe AMOLED will not penetrate iPhone for the next three years. Moreover, Hon Hai is preparing to invest in Gen-6 LTPS TFT-LCD production lines in Zhengzhou, China for mass production in 2018, suggesting the iPhone line will likely stick with TFT-LCD technology in 2018 and thereafter.”

AMOLED screens have darker blacks than LCDs which would allow it to blend in better with the iPhone’s bezel. One of the biggest drawbacks to the new technology though is low yield rates that are problematic to Apple’s need for massive quantities.

Minbea told investors this month that it does no foresee any risk of losing any of its LCD market to AMOLED’s in high-end smartphone in the next three years. Samsung already uses AMOLED in its smartphones, but Apple will keep going with the more power-efficient LCDs for the foreseeable future.

Via: MacRumors

Newsletters

Daily round-ups or a weekly refresher, straight from Cult of Mac to your inbox.

  • The Weekender

    The week's best Apple news, reviews and how-tos from Cult of Mac, every Saturday morning. Our readers say: "Thank you guys for always posting cool stuff" -- Vaughn Nevins. "Very informative" -- Kenly Xavier.