Samsung Display is set to play a pivotal role in Apple’s next-generation iPhone 18 Pro series, supplying advanced OLED panels that leverage cutting-edge LTPO+ technology. According to a report from ETNews, both Samsung and LG will be the primary suppliers for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, with Samsung’s contributions focusing on a new wave of power-efficient displays that enable sophisticated under-screen components.
The key advancement lies in the use of LTPO+ (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Silicon Oxide) panels. For the uninitiated, LTPO is a display backplane technology that allows for more dynamic control over the refresh rate, but LTPO+ takes this a step further by incorporating oxide materials to significantly enhance power efficiency. This means the iPhone 18 Pro models will likely maintain their smooth 120Hz ProMotion capability while being able to drop down to an energy-saving 1Hz for static content, all with less battery drain. This refinement is crucial for extending battery life without compromising on visual performance.
Beyond power savings, the LTPO+ panels also support Under-Display IR (UDIR) technology. This innovation allows the infrared sensors necessary for Face ID to be hidden beneath the screen itself. If implemented, this could lead to a major design shift for the iPhone, potentially replacing the current pill-shaped Dynamic Island with a much smaller, single hole-punch cutout reserved solely for the front-facing camera. This move would result in a cleaner, more immersive display experience.
The report highlights that Samsung Display and LG Display are currently the only manufacturers capable of producing OLED panels that combine both LTPO+ and UDIR technologies. This effectively sidelines Chinese display maker BOE, which faced quality issues with previous iPhone iterations. Samsung’s expertise in this area solidifies its position as a leader in high-end display manufacturing.
Related: Samsung’s new strategy avoids price hikes for mid-range Galaxy phones
In a separate but related development, Samsung Display is also rumored to be the sole supplier for Apple’s anticipated foldable iPhone, expected in the second half of 2026. This device may feature a crease-free OLED panel, addressing a common criticism of current foldables. Interestingly, this aligns with rumors suggesting Samsung’s own Galaxy Z Fold 8 will debut a similar crease-free screen, indicating that the company’s display division is pushing the boundaries for both its own products and those of its competitors.
This supply agreement underscores Samsung’s dominant position in the global display market. While it powers the screens of a key rival, the company’s vertical integration and R&D prowess allow it to maintain a competitive edge. The technologies developed for external partners often trickle down to benefit Samsung’s own Galaxy devices, ensuring that innovations in display quality and efficiency are rapidly adopted across its portfolio.
