Apple is set to finalize OLED panel approvals for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max this month, with Samsung Display and LG Display positioned to dominate the supply chain. China's BOE has been shut out of the premium tier entirely, despite securing some panel orders for the iPhone 17 Pro models. This represents a major realignment in how Apple sources its most critical display components.

The exclusion stems from BOE's struggles with LTPO+ (lower-temperature polycrystalline oxide-plus) technology, which has suffered from quality and yield issues compared to South Korean competitors. This marks a significant shift in Apple's display supply chain, as BOE had been working to establish itself in the premium segment. The South Korean firms have clearly pulled ahead in this next-generation display technology.

The iPhone 18 Pro models will feature LTPO+ display technology, offering improved power efficiency and finer control over OLED light emission, which could extend battery life. Samsung's under-screen infrared technology will also enable Face ID components to move beneath the display, potentially allowing Apple to reduce the Dynamic Island's size — though it's still uncertain whether Apple will actually implement this. Apple traditionally announces new iPhone models in September.