14 DAY TRIAL // Apple will launch three different iPhone models this year, and an LCD version is very likely to be included as a more affordable configuration.
On the other hand, both the iPhone X and the iPhone X Plus expected to debut in September would use OLED panels, and according to people familiar with Apple’s plans, this is a major step towards the company migrating entirely to this display technology.
In other words, starting with 2019 all iPhone models could feature OLED instead of LCD, as part of the transition that begun last year with the original iPhone X.
But according to a new report from The Bell, this won’t be the case, as a last-minute change of mind of Apple’s leadership team suggests an LCD iPhone would be part of the next-year generation as well.
Three iPhones launching next year
LG, which is the current supplier of LCD panels and the company that will build OLEDs for the iPhone X Plus, was previously expected to prepare its production lines for OLED screens entirely. If today’s report is accurate, then LG would no longer switch to OLEDs, instead keeping LCD lines active for at least one more year.
The 2019 generation is very likely to bring us three iPhone models as well, again including an LCD version and two different devices with OLED. Most likely, they will all be based on this year’s trio and be launched as direct successor, with similar design, but introducing substantial improvements under the hood.
Apple has stayed with LCD panels far longer than its rivals in the Android world. The company has tried to boost the capabilities of its displays with software tuning and close work with partners, despite the clear advantages that a switch to OLED would have brought.
As always, there’s no guarantee today’s report is accurate, so take everything with a healthy dose of skepticism because a lot can change until plans for the 2019 iPhones are finalized.