The supply table for the OLED panels that Apple will use in the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models is becoming clear. According to new information, while Samsung Display and LG Display stand out in premium models, this time Chinese BOE is excluded from the high-end iPhone 18 models. At the center of this decision are more advanced LTPO screen technology, quality and production efficiency criteria. The LTPO period begins on the iPhone 18 Pro screen.
Apple will complete the OLED panel approval process for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in May. According to information from industry sources, Samsung Display and LG Display will play the main role in the OLED panel supply of these two models. Although BOE is included in the iPhone 17 Pro side to a limited extent, this time it cannot enter the table in the high-end models of the iPhone 18. The main reason for BOE’s exclusion is the differences in technical competence, quality and efficiency.
The LTPO panel technology to be used in the iPhone 18 Pro series offers a more advanced level than the current LTPO structure. Due to the quality threshold Apple sets on panel suppliers for high-volume production, sufficient production capacity and stable efficiency are critical. LTPO technology was used for the first time by Apple with the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max models. This structure enabled variable adjustment of the screen refresh rate and reduced power consumption.
In standard AMOLED displays, LTPS is used in the thin film transistors that form the screen backplane. The main difference in classical LTPO panels is the introduction of IGZO, or oxide structure, in switching TFTs. LTPO goes one step further here. In this technology, not only switching TFTs but also driver TFTs switch to oxide structure. Thus, the current sent to the OLED panel to produce light is controlled more precisely.
The panel works more efficiently depending on the environmental conditions and usage scenario. The direct result of this is lower power consumption and better battery efficiency. This development also draws attention in terms of Apple’s supply chain approach. The company has been working with more than one supplier for the same component for a long time, both distributing the risks and strengthening its hand in price negotiation.
However, the disabling of BOE on the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max causes the panel supply in high-end models to concentrate around Samsung Display and LG Display. It is reported that the production volume on the Samsung Display side increased by 10 to 15 percent compared to the same period last year. Apple’s increase in order quantity seems to be more effective in this increase than the problems experienced by the BOE.
It is stated that Apple has secured panel supply early in the first half of the year against possible increases in semiconductor and raw material prices. BOE’s role in the Apple ecosystem does not end completely. The company received re-approval for iPhone 17 OLED production and obtained a limited share for the supply of additional panels in the iPhone 17 family. However, it is reported that this share will not be high-volume, and the additional amount BOE can purchase for the iPhone 17 will remain in the range of 3 million to 4 million units at most.
Samsung Display and LG Display are clearly ahead in 2026 Apple OLED supply expectations. According to UBI Research data, Samsung Display’s panel shipment to Apple is expected to be 146 million units, and LG Display’s panel shipment is expected to be 82.24 million units. The projected amount for BOE remains at 35 million units. BOE’s focus is shifting more to older and entry-level models. LTPO is not the only technical issue regarding the screen on the iPhone 18 Pro side.
According to previously reported information, Apple can shrink the notch by using under-screen infrared technology on the iPhone 18 Pro. This structure is among the factors that make OLED production difficult. This technical difficulty also seems to be effective in keeping BOE in the background in high-end models. It is considered unlikely at this stage that Apple will completely disable BOE. BOE’s price advantage still makes the company an important bargaining chip for Apple.
While large-volume Pro panel orders are shifting to Samsung Display and LG Display, BOE is expected to continue to play a role in standard iPhone 18 models or older models.
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