Apple is investing in new technologies for the launch of the iPhone 16. Find out more!
Sources at Korea's The Elec suggest that Samsung and LG are in talks with Apple to use OLED displays with microlenses in future iPhones, such as the iPhone 16, which is expected to be released next year. Already present in some smartphones and TVs, including premium models from the South Korean brands themselves, the technology offers more intense brightness by concentrating light to a specific area, while also increasing the energy efficiency of the display.
Despite being known for its absolute control over its components, Apple still works with other companies to supply some parts, under strict specifications. This is the case for iPhone screens, which are supplied mostly by LG Display and Samsung Display, the brands' specialized panel divisions that share Apple's orders, but Samsung is responsible for the most advanced screens.
Learn more about this technology that Apple may bring soon.
OLED screen
The companies are discussing the possibility of applying a new technology to the iPhone panels, according to information obtained by The Elec. The new technology would maintain OLED, known for its intense contrast and colors, but would adopt an additional layer of microlenses. The use of this solution concentrates the light rays emitted by the OLED, ensuring a higher level of brightness without having to change the brightness of the screen.
This means that the panel can operate at a lower brightness, reducing energy consumption and increasing durability. However, there are also negative aspects, such as the light rays being directed, and the viewing angles are reduced, since fewer of them are directed to the sides of the screen. Another problem is the high manufacturing cost, which can affect the final price of cell phones for consumers.
Apple would have to weigh the benefits. Something that the manufacturer would already be considering. Rumors suggest that before giving a final answer, the company would have asked LG and Samsung work on improving energy efficiency to compensate for the reduced viewing angles by forcing OLED to work at higher brightness. So far, none of the companies have been able to meet the standards required for the model.
Considering there’s still about a year until the next iPhone launches, that doesn’t mean the feature will be scrapped. Optimizations shouldn’t be hard to achieve, especially when Samsung’s premium phones and some of LG’s OLED TVs already feature microlenses.
iPhones
Apple recently closed a according to Qualcomm, for the use of 5G modems in the American company's cell phones between 2024, 2025 and 2026. With this, the debut of Apple's long-awaited 5G modem for the iPhone is not expected to happen in the next three years. Therefore, the launch should take place from 2027 onwards, if a new agreement is not signed by then.
Apple has been interested in moving away from its dependence on suppliers for a few years now, in favor of developing its own modem. Apple currently relies on Qualcomm chips to implement the technologies in its iPhones. In a statement, Qualcomm said that the deal reinforces the brand's history of sustained leadership.
