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Samsung may once again play a central role in Apple’s next iPhone refresh. A new report from China claims the company will supply its most advanced OLED panels for the upcoming iPhone 18 lineup. These displays are said to deliver significantly higher brightness levels than current models.
According to the rumor, Apple has set strict brightness targets for the iPhone 18 series. However, BOE is reportedly struggling to meet those requirements. As a result, Apple may shift more panel orders to Samsung and possibly LG. Both companies already serve as major display partners for Apple.
Recent reports also suggest that Samsung’s LTPO+ panels will power the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. These panels represent the latest evolution of low-temperature polycrystalline oxide technology. In contrast, BOE is again described as the weaker link in Apple’s supply chain. Only Samsung and LG can currently mass-produce LTPO+ panels at Apple’s scale.
The LTPO+ panels are expected to bring more than just higher brightness. They could also allow Apple to move Face ID sensors under the display. If that happens, Apple may finally remove the notch from its premium iPhones. That design shift has been rumored for years, but display limitations delayed it.
Meanwhile, Samsung’s own flagship phones may not see similar upgrades right away. The upcoming Galaxy S26 series is rumored to use the same displays found in its predecessors. If accurate, that means Samsung is reserving its most advanced OLED technology for Apple.
