In a supply chain report that we posted on March 27, we noted that LG Display would start producing LTPO TFT OLED panels aimed at Apple's  higher-tier iPhone models in June. Today, a new supply chain report  states that it is understood that Apple plans to use 50% more OLED panels than they did for the iPhone 14.

More specifically, ETNews reports that LG Display will supply 50% more OLED panels than last year. The iPhone 15 will be released in two general models and two pro models. Among the series, LG Display supplies 6.1-inch and 6.6-inch OLEDs for pro products.

The amount of orders received by LG Display is estimated to be more than 30 million units based on panels supplied from May to the end of the year. It is known that Apple plans to produce 90 million units of the iPhone 15 series this year. The proportion of professional models is estimated at 60%.

LG Display supplied OLED for the iPhone 14 general and Pro Max models last year. A 6.6-inch OLED was made by applying a low-temperature polycrystalline oxide (LTPO) type thin-film transistor (TFT) to a hole design that looks like a hole. In the general type, a low-temperature polycrystalline silicon (LTPS) type 6.1-inch OLED was put in. LG Display will supply displays for two models, iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro, this year. All of them are LTPO OLEDs, which are high value-added panels. The supply price increase effect is expected along with the volume increase.

LG Display struggled even after seizing the iPhone opportunity last year. Although it received an order for a high value-added panel called LTPO OLED, delivery was delayed due to production problems. LG Display resumed supply after reorganization, but some volume was adjusted. It is interpreted that LG Display has been able to increase the quantity by stabilizing LTPO OLED production. The iPhone 15 Pro models are said to have the same display specifications as their predecessors.

The increase in LG Display's orders draws attention as it means an expanded role in Apple's supply chain. In the meantime, Apple has been highly dependent on Samsung to the extent that Samsung Display supplies 70% of iPhone panels. It is highly likely that Apple will actively utilize LG Display to stabilize its supply chain.