# BOE’s OLED Supply Challenges Affecting iPhone Manufacturing
BOE, a key provider of OLED screens for Apple’s iPhones, is encountering renewed quality control challenges. Reports from *OLED-info* and *MacRumors* indicate that Apple has had to shift some of its OLED panel orders for the iPhone 14, iPhone 15, and forthcoming iPhone 16 models to Samsung and LG.
## BOE’s Persistent OLED Production Problems
BOE was anticipated to furnish approximately 40 million OLED panels for Apple in 2024. However, owing to manufacturing issues, the firm has only been able to produce around 7 to 8 million units to date. These quality concerns have resulted in delays, with estimates suggesting that BOE will require at least six weeks to rectify these problems before resuming normal production levels.
Apple has traditionally depended on various suppliers for its OLED panels to minimize reliance on a single source. Although BOE was expected to play a crucial role in Apple’s supply chain, its ongoing quality issues have compelled Apple to redirect additional orders to its more dependable partners, Samsung Display and LG Display.
## Consequences for iPhone SE 4 Production
In spite of BOE’s difficulties with OLED panels for flagship iPhones, the company is projected to be the main supplier for the upcoming iPhone SE 4. Unlike the higher-end iPhone models that employ sophisticated OLED technology, the iPhone SE 4 will utilize a more straightforward LTPS TFT OLED panel.
Reports indicate that Samsung and LG were disinterested in manufacturing displays for the iPhone SE 4 because of its use of outdated display technology. As BOE specializes in low-cost OLED panels, it seems to have secured a sufficient quantity of units for Apple’s budget-oriented iPhone.
## Anticipated Features of the iPhone SE 4
The iPhone SE 4 is rumored to introduce notable enhancements compared to its predecessor, including:
– A **6.1-inch OLED display**, supplanting the previous LCD panel.
– **Face ID compatibility**, signaling the conclusion of the Home Button design.
– Apple’s **first in-house 5G modem**, diminishing reliance on Qualcomm.
With an official announcement on the horizon, it remains to be seen if BOE can uphold Apple’s quality benchmarks for the iPhone SE 4.
## Apple’s Backup Strategies
Apple has a track record of diversifying its supply chain to alleviate risks. Should BOE continue to face challenges with OLED production, Apple may expand orders from Samsung and LG for upcoming models. This shift could influence BOE’s long-term partnership with Apple, as the Cupertino-based firm prioritizes suppliers that can meet its rigorous quality and production expectations.
As the iPhone 16 series nears, Apple will need to secure a consistent OLED supply to prevent manufacturing delays. Whether BOE can rectify its production challenges in a timely manner remains unclear.
## Summary
BOE’s OLED quality challenges have once again disrupted Apple’s supply chain, compelling the company to rely more on Samsung and LG for its iPhone screens. While BOE is expected to manage the display production for the iPhone SE 4, its performance issues with flagship iPhone panels bring into question its long-term position as an Apple supplier.
Stay tuned for further updates as Apple navigates these supply chain obstacles and prepares for its next-generation iPhone launches.
