LG Display is reportedly making changes to its production plans so it can double its OLED screen output in preparation for a new iPad, according to a new report.
Sources say the South Korean company is shifting equipment to its Paju plant to ensure more efficient production of high-resolution panels that meet Apple’s strict quality standards for iPad.
LG prepares for OLED iPad
Whether Apple will actually bring OLED panels to iPad has been a hot topic for several years now. The technology has all but taken over LCD displays in iPhone already, but Apple has instead switched to mini-LED panels for iPad and Mac.
That’s likely because mini-LED is better suited to devices that see extended use. It is less susceptible to burn-in than OLED, which is great for displays that are always on. But it seems Apple still plans an OLED iPad of some kind.
Recent rumors have suggested that OLED screens could indeed make it into iPad models that typically see more casual use, like iPad mini or iPad Air. And a new report claims LG Display is now gearing up to help make one.
OLED iPad on the way?
“LG Display was currently shifting some of its OLED production equipment at its E5 line at its plant in Gumi, South Korea to its plant in Paju,” reads a report from The Elec (after Google translation), citing unnamed sources.
It is thought equipment moves like this “rarely happen” because the process is so complicated. There’s a chance equipment will get damaged, and it needs to be recalibrated again once it has been moved. But it could be worth the effort.
Sources say the shift will allow LG to more efficiently manufacture new high-resolution OLED panels for iPad. It comes after LG last year vowed to invest 3.3 trillion won into its Paju plant, which also makes iPhone displays, by 2024.
Sadly, the report does not mention when a new OLED iPad could debut. Given that LG is still moving equipment, and the time it takes to get to mass production, it seems unlikely the upgrade will come this year.
