Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the growing interest and investment in electronic paper (E-paper) technology by major display panel manufacturers, indicating a shift in focus from traditional LCD and OLED technologies to E-paper, which is seen as having unique advantages in low power consumption and readability under sunlight [1][24]. Group 1: Investment and Collaboration - In April, major panel manufacturers like AUO and Huike showcased their strategic commitment to the E-paper sector through various investments and collaborations [2]. - AUO's subsidiary, Daqin, signed an investment agreement with E Ink to establish a joint venture with a capital of NT$390 million, aiming to create a large-scale E-paper module production line expected to start production in Q4 2025 [3]. - Huike announced a joint development agreement with E Ink focusing on large-size E-paper, and its new production base in Guizhou has commenced operations with a total investment of RMB 5.5 billion [3][4]. Group 2: Technological Advancements - Huike's E-paper products cover sizes from 1.54 inches to 75 inches and possess full-color display capabilities, indicating significant technological advancements in the sector [4]. - Major players like TCL Huaxing and Samsung are also showcasing their latest E-paper products, reflecting their determination to accelerate their E-paper business [5][6]. Group 3: Market Demand and Applications - The demand for E-paper is expected to grow, with a projected 34.8% year-on-year increase in E-paper module shipments in 2024, driven by stable demand in the e-book market and the rise of electronic shelf labels (ESL) [15]. - ESLs are becoming increasingly popular in retail management, with a projected 39.3% year-on-year increase in shipments in 2024, largely due to projects from major retailers like Walmart [15]. Group 4: Unique Characteristics of E-paper - E-paper technology, characterized by bistability and reflective properties, allows images to remain displayed without power and utilizes ambient light for visibility, offering advantages such as ultra-low power consumption and a paper-like reading experience [10][11]. - Despite its advantages, E-paper has faced challenges in performance compared to traditional displays, but ongoing improvements in technology are expected to enhance its capabilities [14][19]. Group 5: Supply Chain Dynamics - The E-paper supply chain consists of upstream core components, midstream module manufacturing, and downstream device manufacturers, with a high concentration of market share among key players [20][23]. - E Ink dominates the global electronic ink market, while major panel manufacturers like TCL Huaxing and BOE are positioned in the TFT substrate segment, leveraging their existing technologies to enter the E-paper market [23]. Group 6: Future Outlook - The article suggests that with continued technological advancements and cost reductions, E-paper is poised to transition from a niche technology to a mainstream solution across various sectors, including smart retail, education, and transportation [26][27]. - The year 2025 is anticipated to be pivotal for the E-paper industry, marking the beginning of a "golden era" driven by investments from major panel manufacturers [27].