The OLED-Info newsletter (December 19, 2022)

In May 2022 we reported that LG Display is looking into adopting a microLens array in its large OLED TV panel architecture. The microlens layer could boost brightness by up to 20%, which will also increase efficiency (if brightness is kept as before). According to a new report from Korea, LGD is progressing in its project and estimates that the first MLA (Micro Lens Array) OLED panels will enter production in 2024.

MicroLens array structure, University of Michigan

The original report in May stated that LGD could actually begin producing MLA OLEDs as early as in 2022 - but it seems as this was overly optimistic. Earlier this year, LGD demonstrated a 77" 8K MLA WOLED panel.

UBI Research says that according to its latest study, the OLED emitter market is set to grow from around $1.82 billion in 2022 to $2.75 billion in 2027, with an annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.6%.

In 2027, UBI expects Samsung's emitter material orders to amount to $680 million - fueled by growth in foldable OLED panels. BOE's emitter material orders will reach $380 million, and LG Display's - $230 million.

LG Display announced that its automotive P-OLED and premium LTPS LCD displays have been certified as eco-friendly by Switzerland-based inspection, verification and certification leader, SGS. LG Display that its displays are the first in the industry to have received this certification.

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SGS gives this certification to products that adhere to global environmental regulations and minimize hazardous substances all the way from production to disposal.

According to reports from Korea, Apple is designing a new foldable MacBook laptop, that will adopt a large 20.25 foldable OLED display. Apple is collaborating with Samsung or LG Display on this project, the report does not detail that.

The reports also suggest that Apple is looking into smaller foldable display - including a foldable iPhone and a foldable iPad Mini (10-inch when open) - but these projects aren't confirmed yet.

UBI Research says that according to its latest information and forecasts, shipments of Samsung's rigid smartphone AMOLED displays declined to 19 million units in Q3 2022, a drop of over 50% compared to last year. Rigid smartphone OLED display sales will continue to decline at an annual rate of 12.9% and will reach only only 96 million units in 2027.

Flexible OLED sales will continue to increase at a rate of 7.4% from 2022 to 2027. In 2027, Samsung Display will ship 220 million flexible OLED displays, while BOE will ship 140 million OLEDs.