BOE is the favorite in the competition to supply the iPhone SE 4 screen, planned for release in 2025, reports ZDNET Korea. The device is expected to come with a 6.1-inch OLED screen, similar to that of the standard iPhone 13 and 14 versions, and to be produced in 15 million units.
BOE, selected mainly for the best price
Before Samsung’s withdrawal, three major companies were vying for this contract: BOE, Samsung Display and Tianma. Price differences played a crucial role in the events, with Samsung considering Apple’s offer of $25 per unit too low compared to their proposed price of $30.
On the other hand, Apple wanted to reduce its supply chain’s dependence on Samsung Display, which opened the door for BOE to become the exclusive supplier. Despite its efforts, Tianma failed to prove it could meet Apple’s quality standards, leaving the way open for the other Chinese company.
Apple is reportedly planning to ditch the home button for the iPhone SE 4 and adopt a modern, full-screen design. The new model is speculated to use the screen from the iPhone 13, which is identical to the one used by the iPhone 14, marking a continuation of Apple’s strategy of reusing technology from previous models to lower costs.
Samsung’s decision to withdraw from negotiations for the iPhone SE 4 screen and the choice of BOE as the exclusive supplier is an important change for both companies. Although switching to a new supplier introduces a certain level of risk, Apple and BOE are confident in their ability to manage the challenges and maintain quality standards.
This change in supplier dynamics highlights Apple’s desire to diversify and optimize its supply chain, as well as Samsung’s calculation to focus its resources on products with higher profit margins. In the end, both tech giants seem happy with the outcome, despite the challenges and tense negotiations.
