As Japan Display Inc. (JDI) positions itself for a major comeback, the company is set to become a key supplier of custom OLED displays for the upcoming Apple Watch Series 5. This strategic move highlights JDI's pivot toward miniature OLED displays and other small OLED display technologies, as it prepares to meet growing demand in the wearable tech market.
Relate: JDI Display Panel List
Diversifying Apple’s Supply Chain with High-Precision OLED Panels
According to analyst Guo Minghao from Tianfeng International, Apple is looking to diversify its display supply chain. JDI and Changxin Technology are expected to collaborate on delivering tiny OLED display solutions that meet Apple’s strict performance and quality requirements.
These display panels, expected to be thinner and more power-efficient, fall under Apple’s ongoing effort to enhance iPhone X image quality and improve wearable technology through mini OLED display innovations.
From Setbacks to Strategic Partnerships
Despite reporting a Q1 net loss of 83.3 billion yen, JDI remains optimistic. The company has suffered from declining smartphone display sales and restructuring costs, but sees new growth through high-value segments like principal display panels for smartwatches.
In particular, the display board panel production for the Apple Watch Series 5 marks JDI’s entry into mass-producing auto con display OLED solutions and mesh panels for art displays, hinting at broader future applications.
Reinventing Display Solutions for the Wearable Era
JDI’s push into flexible OLED production includes components such as JDI ghost key and JDI push start modules, reinforcing its intent to evolve from traditional smartphone screens to miniature OLED display manufacturing for IoT and wearable markets.
The collaboration with Changxin is expected to streamline the production of OLED screens and touch modules, enabling better performance and jdy performance in end-user products.
In conclusion, Apple’s reliance on JDI for Apple Watch OLED panels and the increasing demand for OLED display price competitiveness marks a pivotal moment. As JDI realigns its core business, it aims to meet global demand for compact, high-performance display solutions, benefiting both consumers and investors alike.