2 min read
Apple has reportedly dropped Chinese panel maker BOE from its iPhone 17 Pro supply chain, according to a recent report from Korea. BOE has struggled with product reliability issues that it cannot resolve before the end of the year.
The shift means Samsung Display will take over the panels originally meant for BOE. Up to 10 million screens were expected from BOE for the iPhone 17 Pro models sold in China. Since BOE has not solved the problems with these panels, industry analysts say the company has failed to become a full supplier for Apple this year.
To cover the shortfall, Samsung Display will increase its OLED panel supply to Apple from 80 million units to 90 million. BOE also supplies panels for other iPhone models, but it now appears unlikely to meet its 40 million unit target for 2025.
According to the report, BOE’s difficulties reportedly stem from Apple’s demand for LTPO panels for the iPhone 17 Pro, which remain challenging for the Chinese manufacturer to produce at Apple’s standards.
The update comes shortly after BOE resolved a patent dispute with Samsung over OLED technology. As part of the settlement, BOE will pay Samsung royalties for the use of its intellectual property.
