Chinese display manufacturer BOE is set to become Apple’s largest supplier of MacBook panels by 2025, surpassing longstanding rivals in the industry. The company’s ascension to the top spot is a testament to its increased procurement of LCD panels for Apple’s MacBook Air lineup.
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The Changing Landscape
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Market research firm Omdia forecasts BOE capturing a significant 51% of Apple’s MacBook display orders this year, up from 39% in 2024. This shift signifies a redistribution of orders among suppliers, with LG Display experiencing a decline in its market share, while Sharp continues to supply mini-LED panels for the MacBook Pro.
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BOE’s Momentum
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BOE is expected to ship around 11.5 million units to Apple in 2025, marking the first time a Chinese manufacturer will supply over half of the display panels used in Apple’s MacBook lineup. This surge in demand is primarily fueled by Apple’s increased emphasis on the MacBook Air, which now offers models in different sizes. The MacBook Air’s popularity has been instrumental in BOE’s rise to prominence.
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The Competition Heats Up
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In contrast, LG Display, Apple’s former primary MacBook display supplier, is projected to supply only 8.48 million units in 2025, reflecting a substantial decline in shipment volume. Sharp, on the other hand, is facing a decrease in supply volumes due to weakening demand for the MacBook Pro models.
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The OLED Paradigm Shift
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While BOE currently enjoys a dominant position in Apple’s MacBook display supply chain, its reign may be short-lived. Apple’s plans to introduce OLED technology in its MacBook Pro models next year signal a potential shift in the market. The transition from LCD to OLED is expected to bring about a new wave of competition among display makers.
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Future Prospects
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As Apple gears up to adopt OLED technology for its MacBooks, BOE’s lead as the top MacBook display supplier may face challenges. With Samsung Display likely to join Apple’s supply chain for OLED panels, the display market is poised for further evolution.
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Conclusion
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In the dynamic landscape of display technology, BOE’s emergence as Apple’s largest MacBook display supplier marks a significant milestone. While the company’s current dominance is notable, the impending shift towards OLED technology signifies a new chapter in the evolution of MacBook displays. As industry players adapt to these changes, the competition among display makers is set to intensify, shaping the future of display technology in the MacBook ecosystem.
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