BOE faces OLED challenges, Apple moves iPhone orders to Samsung

Chinese display maker BOE is facing renewed production challenges with OLED panels for iPhones, forcing Apple to shift some orders to Samsung Display. According to The Elec, these issues first emerged in November-December last year and remain unresolved. As a result, BOE has had to completely halt production of certain models, leading to order volumes being redirected to Samsung.

In the second half of 2025, BOE supplied OLED screens for a wide range of iPhones—from the 13 to the 17 series, including the more affordable iPhone 16e and the upcoming 17e. However, panels for the iPhone 15, 16, and 17 have proven problematic, with quality defects disrupting stable batch production. This is particularly unusual because BOE previously handled OLED supplies for the iPhone 15 and 16 quite reliably. The sudden setbacks are puzzling given that these panels use relatively simple LTPS technology compared to the more complex LTPO displays for the iPhone 17.

Currently, BOE is focused on ensuring stable production for the iPhone 17e, expected this spring. This model was supposed to receive the largest share of supplies from BOE, but ongoing delays are forcing the company to adjust its plans. Meanwhile, Samsung Display has absorbed millions of redirected orders over the past two months.

BOE's difficulties have intensified following last year's conflict with Samsung, when the South Korean manufacturer accused BOE of stealing trade secrets and infringing AMOLED patents. This triggered an ITC investigation and threatened U.S. import restrictions. The dispute was settled in late 2025, with sources indicating BOE paid royalties to Samsung.