LG Display and Samsung Display have both proposed to Apple that micro lenses (MLA) technology be used for a brighter, more efficient OLED display that may even work in sunlight.
The information was reported by Korean newspaper The Elec based on industry sources.
Micro Lens Array (MLA) technology can be applied to an OLED panel in order to help direct more of the generated light towards the viewer, for improved energy efficiency or higher brightness – or a combination.
Micro lenses help direct more of the generated light towards the viewer. Photo: LG Display
LG Display and Samsung Display are both supplying Apple with OLED displays for the current iPhone models. LG Display is currently producing OLED TV and monitor panels with MLA while Samsung Display is using MLA in its latest mobile OLED panels for Samsung smartphones.
Bright enough for outdoor use?
OLED displays in smartphones have gotten significantly brighter in recent years, and Apple currently advertises 2000 nits peak brightness for the iPhone 14 Pro when used outdoor.
MLA could further boost brightness without making the OLED display in an iPhone consume more power. Or it could deliver the same 2000 nits brightness at lower energy consumption to help reduce the risk of the phone heating up and throttling display brightness after a while when used outside in sunlight.
The report did not provide an estimate for how much MLA can increase brightness in the OLED panel intended for iPhone.
It did say, however, that Apple has yet to make a decision in regard to MLA OLED for the iPhone 16 that is expected to come out next year around September.
- Source: The Elec
