A new supply chain report says that Apple has asked both Samsung and LG to supply samples of an OLED panel suitable for an iMac.
The report says that the company is progressing plans to launch an OLED iMac, but it seems we shouldn’t expect it anytime soon …
The story so far
Apple first adopted OLED for the Apple Watch, followed by the iPhone and iPad, with the MacBook Pro expected to be next in line as part of a major redesign later this year. Things have, however, been quieter on the iMac front.
A report last year said that Apple was beginning the process of preparing for the launch of an OLED iMac, but that things were at a very early stage.
Apple has at this point merely asked display partners Samsung and LG for information on how they would meet the company’s specs before it asks for a quotation.
OLED iMac screen samples
ZDNet Korea reports that things have now progressed and that Apple has asked both Samsung and LG to supply samples of a suitable display.
According to industry sources today, it is understood that Apple recently requested Samsung Display and LG Display to produce iMac OLED samples using mass-production facilities.
Launch expected in 2029 or 2030
However, the report also said that the new machine or machines won’t be launching for several years.
Apple plans to apply OLED to iMac for the first time around 2029-2030.
The reason for the extended timeline is believed to be that Apple is seeking a higher spec than currently available. The company specifically wants to use QD-OLED (Quantum Dot OLED) displays, which have so far maxed out at 160 PPI, while Apple wants 220 PPI.
QD-OLED bypasses the need for a color filter, making the displays brighter and the colors more vivid.
Samsung is currently said to be more advanced in QD-OLED production, and is likely to be the primary or only supplier at launch. However, It’s very challenging to make these displays in larger sizes, so the first model is likely to be 24- or 27-inches rather than the 30 to 32 inches some have been waiting for.
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