Apple May Break Samsung's Grip on iPad OLED Supply Chain With New Display Partners

A new report from The Elec reveals that Apple is considering a major shift in its iPad OLED component supply chain, potentially opening the door for LG Innotek and LX Semicon to join the mix. The decision—expected this month—could disrupt Samsung's current monopoly over a critical piece of iPad display hardware.

What’s Changing in the OLED Stack?

OLED displays are complex, and two key parts are in the spotlight here:

• Display Driver IC (DDI): The chip that controls how pixels light up and refresh

• Chip-on-Film (CoF): A flexible connector that attaches the DDI to the actual display panel

Until now, Samsung System LSI has been the sole supplier of DDIs for all iPad OLED panels, even those manufactured by LG Display.

But if Apple approves LX Semicon’s DDI—paired with LG Innotek’s CoF—it would mark the first time Apple has sourced these components from anyone other than Samsung.

Why This Matters

• For Apple: Diversifying suppliers could help cut costs, reduce reliance on Samsung, and boost supply chain resilience

• For LX Semicon: This would be a major comeback, as Apple reportedly rejected an earlier DDI proposal

• For LG Innotek: This would be its first major contract for supplying CoF in iPad OLEDs—a new business line for the company

• For Samsung: The move would weaken its dominance in Apple’s display chain just as competition heats up in both iPad and iPhone OLED markets

iPhone Impact?

LX Semicon is also reportedly competing with Novatek for a piece of the iPhone DDI business, meaning this iPad deal could serve as a strategic stepping stone for broader Apple contracts down the line.

What Comes Next?

Apple is expected to release an M5-powered iPad Pro later this year, and the decision on which display components make the cut may determine who gets to be in that high-profile device.

• If Apple approves the LX Semicon + LG Innotek combo this month, it could be integrated into later batches of OLED iPads

• If not, Samsung may maintain its hold—at least until the next refresh cycle

Final Thought

This isn’t just a supply chain shuffle—it’s a strategic power play. Apple wants more control and flexibility, and for companies like LX Semicon and LG Innotek, this could be a multi-year gateway into one of the most lucrative tech ecosystems on the planet.