Core Insights - The article highlights the transformation of China's OLED industry from a follower to a parallel player and now aiming to become a leader in the global market, with significant contributions from companies like BOE, Visionox, Tianma, and TCL Huaxing [1][21]. Group 1: Historical Development - The development of domestic OLED technology began in the 1990s, with Tsinghua University establishing an OLED project group in 1996, laying the groundwork for the industry [2]. - In 2001, Visionox was founded, focusing on key technologies that would later support the production of flexible OLED screens [2][4]. - The early 2010s saw companies like BOE and OLED companies facing challenges due to weak technology accumulation and reliance on imports for critical components [4][6]. Group 2: Market Evolution - The global display market experienced a technological revolution in 2017, significantly improving OLED yield rates, which accelerated the mainstream adoption of OLED screens, particularly after the launch of the iPhone X [7][9]. - Government policies and capital investments supported the domestic OLED industry, with local governments providing incentives for companies like BOE and Visionox to establish production lines [9][11]. - Domestic manufacturers began to gain more influence, with Visionox leading the establishment of international standards in flexible displays [11]. Group 3: Current Challenges - Despite achieving over 45% market share, domestic OLED manufacturers still face significant gaps in high-end markets compared to Samsung and LG [18]. - The industry is characterized by long cycles, high leverage, and substantial R&D investments, leading to revenue growth but profit pressures [18][20]. - Key materials and equipment for OLED production remain heavily reliant on imports, particularly in high-performance organic materials and deposition equipment [16][18]. Group 4: Future Directions - Domestic OLED companies are encouraged to focus on high-value segments such as high-end laptops, automotive displays, and innovative products like foldable screens to avoid price wars in saturated markets [20]. - There is a need for enhanced collaboration between upstream material suppliers and downstream panel manufacturers to improve innovation and reduce dependency on foreign products [16][21]. - The article emphasizes that true leadership in the OLED market will require mastering next-generation display technologies and establishing control over standards and patents [22][23].

Core Viewpoint - Samsung Display is preparing a dedicated production line for Apple's foldable products at its A3 factory, which is expected to enhance its position as a key supplier for Apple's upcoming foldable iPhone models [1][3][4]. Group 1: Production Capacity and Plans - The A3 factory has a monthly capacity of 35,000 sheets (based on 6th generation glass substrates), translating to an annual production capacity of 15 million sheets, or 1.25 million panels per month [1]. - Apple plans to launch its first foldable phone in 2024, coinciding with the release of the iPhone 18, and is expected to produce between 6 million to 8 million units of the foldable iPhone by 2026 [3]. Group 2: Supply Agreement and Market Position - Samsung Display has signed a multi-year exclusive supply contract for foldable OLED screens with Apple, leveraging its experience in mass production and supply of foldable OLED technology [4]. - Analysts believe that Samsung Display's leading position in the foldable OLED manufacturing sector gives it significant leverage, making it likely to remain the exclusive supplier even after the contract expires [4].