Samsung Display is advancing in the development of a new generation of OLED panels, called LTPO+, which promises to revolutionize the design of future Apple devices. The innovative technology will allow the Face ID’s infrared sensors to be hidden beneath the screen, eliminating the need for visible cutouts on the front. The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models, scheduled for 2026, should be the first to incorporate this significant change.
The main advantage of the new technology lies in the significant gain in energy efficiency. If the variable refresh rate remains between 1 Hz and 120 Hz, battery consumption will be considerably lower compared to current LTPO panels. Essa optimization paves the way for a cleaner, more immersive design on Apple smartphones, consolidating the long-standing partnership between the two technology giants.
The focus of the collaboration between Samsung and Apple now centers on the ability to integrate biometric components invisibly, without compromising usable display area or image quality. The development marks a crucial step towards a smartphone with a front completely occupied by the screen.
Advances in display technology
LTPO+ panels represent a direct evolution of LTPO (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide) technology, already used in premium devices. The improved version combines low-temperature oxides with thin-film transistors to provide even finer control over the screen’s refresh rate. Isso translates into lower energy consumption in various usage scenarios, from displaying static content, such as texts and photos, to playing videos and games with high fluidity.
The integration of UDIR (Under Display Infrared) technology is what makes it possible to position the Face ID’s infrared sensors directly under the display. Essa approach maintains facial recognition accuracy and security while reducing visible on-screen elements. Manufacturers are in the intensive testing phase with prototypes to ensure quality and viability for mass production, overcoming challenges such as panel transparency and interference with sensor readings.
Suppliers involved in the project
Samsung Display leads the initial supply of LTPO+ panels to Apple, leveraging its consolidated experience in producing complex OLED displays for mobile devices.
LG Display also participates in parallel development and can expand its participation in future batches, meeting the strict quality standards required by Apple.
Chinese manufacturer BOE, on the other hand, faces technical difficulties in producing LTPO+ technology on a large scale with compatible quality, which excludes it from the initial batch of suppliers for the Pro models.
Details about component placement
Initial information that suggested moving the front camera to the top left corner has been clarified by industry sources. Tais Rumors arose from misinterpretations in specialized publications, but it was confirmed that the centralized positioning will remain unchanged.
Apple prioritizes visual consistency and symmetry in its product line. Mudanças drastic changes in the front layout would require extensive validation with users so as not to compromise the user experience.
The infrared sensor, however, can occupy a specific position under the screen to optimize biometric reading, while the selfie camera will remain centered.
The main focus of the innovation is to hide the components of the Face ID without changing key elements of the established design, such as the Ilha Dinâmica, which must be maintained, but with a more integrated and discreet functionality.
Benefits for energy efficiency
LTPO+ technology has the potential to transform device autonomy, offering a consumption reduction that can reach 15% compared to standard LTPO panels, according to industrial tests. Essa savings are particularly noticeable at low refresh rates, such as when viewing static content or in Always-On mode (Display). In practice, this means that users can gain additional hours of battery life in everyday use scenarios, one of the most anticipated benefits in each new generation of smartphones. The combination with UDIR technology not only increases the usable screen area for a more immersive video and gaming experience, but also contributes to a more efficient system as a whole. The optimization extends to thermal management, resulting in less device heat during intense tasks, which in turn helps maintain peak performance for longer and preserve long-term battery life. The software will also be optimized to make the most of the new hardware, dynamically adjusting the refresh rate in a more intelligent and imperceptible way for the user.
Application in foldable devices
Rumors about a foldable iPhone are reinforced with the arrival of the new Samsung OLED panels, as LTPO+ technology helps minimize visible creases on flexible screens and improves durability.
Preparation for mass production
The production lines in Coreia of Sul are receiving significant investments to meet the demand of Apple. Samsung Display has already started the validation phases with pilot batches, making fine adjustments at each manufacturing stage due to the complexity of the new technology.
LG Display accelerates its parallel development to secure a slice of the supply cycle. Ambas companies compete for greater volumes in annual contracts, while Apple negotiates conditions to guarantee a stable inventory throughout 2026, avoiding launch delays.
