Samsung Display is reportedly making preparations to remain a top supplier in the ever-changing market, as cutting-edge display technologies are bound to get more traction. Although Apple hasn't released any device equipped with a foldable display, Samsung believes this is the future, and the company is already aiming to become Apple's primary supplier for both foldable and next-gen XR (mixed reality) devices.
According to the Korean media citing industry sources, Samsung Display recently reorganized its “A” business team, which is quoted as being responsible for developing display technologies that meet Apple's demand and standards.
More focus on foldable panels and microdisplays
Industry watchers interpret these Samsung Display restructurings as the company preparing for a future wherein foldable displays become mainstream. The company wants to continue growing as new display technologies gain popularity.
Apple hasn't announced any foldable devices yet, but Samsung Display wants foldable panels to become a primary source of revenue. Apple would more or less guarantee that, and as the technology evolves, the iPhone maker is bound to eventually jump on the foldable device bandwagon. When that happens, Samsung Display will be ready to meet Apple's demands.
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Meanwhile, Apple is likely to release its first mixed-reality headset before the company transitions to foldable panels for mobile devices. The Apple Vision Pro, announced earlier this year, should go on sale in 2024.
However, the Vision Pro doesn't have a Samsung display. The panel is supplied by Sony rather than the Korean tech giant, and Samsung Display intends to change that and enter Apple's supply chain.
Sony will be the first to commercialize OLEDoS (OLED on Silicon) panels through the Apple Vision Pro, but Samsung Display is already making moves to develop OLEDoS for XR headsets. Last month, it was revealed that Samsung is working on OLEDoS technology in collaboration with German firm Merck.
Samsung's mobile division is developing its own XR headset, which could be released next year to compete with the Apple Vision Pro. At the same time, Samsung's headset might be a launchpad for the Display division to showcase its manufacturing capabilities as a potential Apple supplier.
