Apple's upcoming fourth-generation iPhone SE is set for a 2025 release, marking a significant milestone in its transition to OLED technology across all iPhone models. This move will finally bring the iPhone SE in line with Apple's flagship devices, which have been using OLED displays since the iPhone X debuted in 2017.

Impact on Japanese LCD Suppliers

Nikkei Asia learned that the shift to OLED displays signifies the end of an era for Japan Display (JDI) and Sharp, two long-standing suppliers of LCD panels for Apple's iPhones. 

Back in 2015, these companies supplied approximately 200 million LCD panels annually for iPhones. However, as Apple gradually transitioned to OLED, this number drastically dropped to around 20 million by 2023. 

For years, JDI and Sharp were able to remain in Apple's supply chain by providing LCD screens for the iPhone SE models. But with the upcoming iPhone SE set to feature an OLED display, these suppliers will no longer play a role in Apple's iPhone production.

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JDI and Sharp's New Focus Amid Declining Demand

JDI and Sharp are now pivoting their business strategies in response to the diminishing demand for LCDs in smartphones. JDI is focusing on producing small OLED displays for devices like the Apple Watch and is also exploring opportunities in the automotive industry. 

Meanwhile, Sharp is scaling back its LCD operations, particularly in the television sector.

New OLED Suppliers for the iPhone SE

With JDI and Sharp stepping away from the iPhone supply chain, Apple has reportedly placed orders for OLED displays from China's BOE Technology Group and South Korea's LG Display. These suppliers are expected to produce the OLED panels for the upcoming iPhone SE, ensuring that the device will have the same high-quality display as Apple's premium models, as per MacRumors.

Anticipated Features of the Fourth-Generation iPhone SE

The fourth-generation iPhone SE is rumored to include several exciting features that will make it a significant upgrade from its predecessors. The device is expected to adopt a design similar to the iPhone 14, featuring an all-screen look that eliminates the Home Button. It's also anticipated to include Face ID instead of Touch ID, a USB-C port, and an Action button. 

Additionally, the iPhone SE is likely to be powered by Apple's A18 processor, include an Apple-designed 5G modem, and offer increased internal RAM-up to 8GB from the 4GB in the 2022 model-due to the hardware demands of Apple Intelligence.

The display size is expected to grow from 4.7 inches to 6.06 inches, making the iPhone SE more in line with modern smartphone sizes. These upgrades are poised to make the iPhone SE a formidable competitor in the mid-range smartphone market.

Mass Production For iPhone SE 4 Units

Apple's suppliers are expected to begin mass production of the fourth-generation iPhone SE in October 2024. While the device could potentially be released ahead of the Lunar New Year in January 2025, it's worth noting that Apple has historically announced all three existing iPhone SE models in March. Therefore, a March 2025 release remains a strong possibility.

Apple's decision to equip the next iPhone SE with an OLED display marks the completion of its transition from LCD to OLED technology across its entire iPhone lineup. This move not only enhances the visual experience for users but also signals a major shift in the supply chain, with JDI and Sharp exiting the scene. 

For the years to come, the Cupertino giant is expected to innovate and upgrade its devices with each iPhone version release annually. Somehow, it's good that the budget-friendly iPhones will get the much-needed upgrade they deserve for a long time.

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