Apple is considering using OLED for the next generation of high-end IT display products

With the launch of the new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models, Mini LED backlit LCDs have finally been used in most of Apple’s high-end IT products. Mini LED backlit LCDs can perform HDR (High Dynamic Range) dynamic image operations, and their reliability is considered to be much better than that of OLED. Moreover, the manufacturing capacity of large-size OLED panels is not as sufficient as that of LCD panels.

However, many industry experts still believe that Apple may not abandon the development of IT OLED display panels and is still considering using OLED for its next generation of high-end IT models, as OLED has a significant advantage over Mini LED backlighting in terms of ultra-thin thickness. To enhance its brightness and reliability, an RGB tandem structure is currently being developed. To mass-produce large-size IT display panels, some OLED manufacturers are planning to invest in eighth-generation OLED factories.

Manufacturing costs of OLED are significantly lower compared to Mini LED

Manufacturing costs will be another advantage of OLED compared to Mini LED backlighting. Figure 1 shows the cost comparison between conventional (traditional) LCD, OLED, and Mini LED backlit LCD for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro tablet. The manufacturing cost of Mini LED backlit LCD is estimated to be significantly higher than that of conventional LCD and OLED – about three times that of LCD and twice that of OLED.

Figure 1: Cost Comparison of LCD/OLED and Mini LED Backlit LCD – 12.9-inch 2732×2048 Tablet