Apple, Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL) is reportedly
going all-in on OLED screens for its 2019 iPhone models — news that could have a major impact on iPhone margins and Apple
suppliers.
What Happened
Unnamed industry sources said all three of the iPhone models Apple is planning for 2019 will come equipped with high-tech OLED
screens, according to a new report by South Korea’s Electronic Times. The organic light-emitting diode screens make images
sharper and brighter than liquid crystal display screens. Up to this point, the high-end iPhone X has been the only iPhone model
with an OLED display.
Why It’s Important
OLED panels are much more expensive than LCD panels; the shift to OLED could have an impact on iPhone prices and Apple’s costs
and margins. Investors will be watching closely for the pricing of the new models and the market reception.
In the meantime, Samsung Electronics Co Ltd (OTC: SSNLF) stock traded higher by more than 1.7 percent on Seoul on Tuesday. Samsung is
currently Apple’s exclusive supplier of OLED panels for the iPhone X. Samsung supplier Universal Display
Corporation (NASDAQ: OLED) traded higher by more
than 18 percent Tuesday morning. OLED supplier LG Display Co Ltd. (ADR) (NYSE: LPL), which was not directly impacted by the news, was also trading higher by more
than 5 percent.
At the same time, LCD iPhone supplier Japan Display Inc (OTC: JNNDF) traded down by 20 percent.
What’s Next
Investors will be looking for confirmation of a full-OLED iPhone lineup. If so, they will be watching Apple supplier stocks and
Apple analysts for commentary about how the move could impact iPhone price, margins and sales.
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Photo courtesy of Apple.
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