Apple’s reported plans to expand OLED technology across its MacBook and iPad ranges are prompting South Korea’s biggest display manufacturers to prepare for a new wave of investment.

Samsung Display and LG Display are pursuing different strategies as Apple prepares to bring OLED panels to more of its devices, according to reports.

Industry sources expect Apple to unveil an OLED touchscreen MacBook Pro and an OLED-equipped iPad mini later this month. Samsung Display is reportedly set to supply all the initial panels for both products, although Apple has yet to confirm the launches.

It would be an expansion beyond the iPhone and Apple Watch, which already use OLED displays.

Samsung Display is reportedly preparing to invest in a new A7 production line at its second Asan complex in South Chungcheong Province, South Korea.

Reports suggest spending is expected to begin in the first half of 2027, with equipment installation potentially completed in the first half of 2028. Commercial production is anticipated to begin in 2029.

The facility is expected to manufacture OLED panels for smartphones, foldable devices, laptops and tablets, positioning Samsung to benefit as more electronics manufacturers transition away from LCDs.

Market researcher Sigmaintell estimates Samsung Display already supplies more than 70% of OLED laptop panels used by major global brands. It accounts for approximately 75% of Acer’s OLED laptop panel supply and is also a significant supplier to Lenovo and Dell.

Apple’s expansion could strengthen that position, even more so if demand for premium OLED computers grows. 

Rival LG Display is developing a technology that will reportedly reduce manufacturing costs but also make larger OLED panels more practical to produce.

Its fine-metal-mask-free process, known as FLiPP, uses photolithography to create the red, green and blue subpixels that form a display.

The company is considering upgrading an existing production line in Paju, South Korea, and has reportedly held discussions with equipment suppliers.

Sigmaintell expects mass production could begin in 2029, although LG Display says the technology is still under development.

It’s possible it will be used for Apple’s 27-inch Studio Display, suggest industry insiders, with LG Display showcasing a panel of that size which used FLiPP earlier in the year. 

Research firm UBI Research projects IT products will account for 12.5% of Apple’s annual OLED panel demand by 2030, an increase from 4.1% in 2026.

Although rising semiconductor costs and sluggish consumer electronics demand could affect that growth, Apple’s broader adoption of OLED technology is shaping up as a major opportunity for South Korea’s display industry.

OLED screens offer deep blacks, strong contrast and vibrant colours, making them attractive for entertainment, creative work and everyday computing.

For those considering a new MacBook or iPad, the reported expansion could eventually bring these display benefits to more product categories, however availability and final specs remain unconfirmed.