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In a significant shift for Apple’s supply chain, BOE is set to supply a whopping 51% of LCD panels for MacBooks by 2025, according to a new analysis by Omdia. This is a notable increase from 39% in 2024, as BOE surpasses LG Display for the first time, cementing its position as the leading supplier. This surge is largely fueled by the 13.6″ and 15.3″ MacBook Air models, where BOE has become the go-to partner.
Current Market Dynamics
Omdia’s report reveals that BOE will deliver approximately 11.5 million panels to Apple in 2025. Meanwhile, LG Display, which has historically been Apple’s main supplier, is expected to see its market share dip to 35%, losing 9 percentage points from the previous year. Why the decline? It’s mainly due to reduced orders for MacBook Pro models and a shift of some Air model orders to BOE.
In concrete terms, LG Display will provide around 8.48 million panels, marking a 12.2% year-on-year decrease. Sharp is also grappling with challenges, particularly with its 14.2″ and 16.2″ MacBook Pro panels. Anticipated deliveries are expected to fall to 3.1 million units, which translates to a 20.8% drop compared to last year. Sharp’s market share is projected to hover around 14%.
Overall Panel Supply Estimates
Looking ahead, Apple is estimated to procure a total of 22.5 million MacBook panels in 2025, reflecting a modest annual growth of 1%. To tackle the uncertainties stemming from US-China trade tensions, Apple has been proactive. The company is relocating some production to Vietnam and building inventory ahead of time during Q4 2024 and Q1 2025, which has temporarily boosted supply.
But what does the future hold? Omdia forecasts a major transition starting in 2026 when Apple may begin shifting from LCD to OLED panels for its MacBooks. Samsung Display is expected to join the supply chain in this evolution. The introduction of OLED technology, known for its superior visual quality and its ability to create thinner, lighter designs, is likely to dramatically reshape the competitive landscape among suppliers.
Future Implications
This transition raises intriguing questions: Which suppliers will emerge as leaders in the OLED market once Apple fully embraces this technology for its MacBook line? As the tech landscape changes, industry observers are closely monitoring how these shifts will influence supplier dynamics and product offerings.
Additionally, Apple is reportedly working on a groundbreaking new photographic sensor that can detect light variations nearly as effectively as the human eye. This indicates a strong commitment to enhancing user experience across its product range.
In conclusion, BOE’s ascension in the LCD market for MacBooks underscores a major transformation in Apple’s supply chain. Meanwhile, the anticipated switch to OLED technology signals that even more shifts are on the horizon. Are we ready for the changes ahead?