Tech News from CNMO: On April 9th, CNMO learned from Korean media that Apple will incorporate new LTPO OLED technology into the upcoming Apple Watch 10, set to be released in the second half of the year. So far, oxide has only been used for some switch TFTs in Apple Watch LTPO OLEDs, but with the new product, oxide will also be used for driving TFTs. By leveraging the new LTPO OLED, Apple can further reduce the power consumption of the watch. Additionally, the industry is watching closely to see if Apple will apply the enhanced oxide-acting new LTPO OLED to other products such as the iPhone.
Industry insiders say that Apple is planning to apply LTPO TFT technology to the OLED of the upcoming Apple Watch 10 series, set to be released in the second half of this year. This type of LTPO TFT consists of 7 to 8 TFTs and employs a method where oxide is used for driving TFTs and some of the switching TFTs. So far, the LTPO TFT used in the Apple Watch has only employed oxide in two switching TFTs, while LTPS has been used for the rest of the switching TFTs and driving TFTs. In simple terms, in the new LTPO OLED, the role of oxide is enhanced.
According to South Korean media, the industry's focus on the Apple Watch OLED with LTPO TFT is because the enhanced role of oxide in the new LTPO OLED could potentially extend to other Apple products like the iPhone. It is reported that, like its predecessor, the iPhone 16 series, set to be released in the second half of this year, will only apply LTPO TFT to its two top models (Pro and Pro Max), while all four models of the iPhone 17 series planned for next year are slated to adopt LTPO OLED.
LG Display is expected to be the primary producer of the Apple Watch 10 series OLED, with Japan's JDI also being a supplier of OLEDs for the Apple Watch, but LG Display is expected to be the first to develop the new LTPO OLED. Additionally, Samsung Display is involved in the development project for the Apple Watch 11 series OLED and is expected to release it next year.