Samsung rumored supplying Super PLS for next iPad
updated 01:10 pm EST, Thu February 10, 2011
Apple may talk to Samsung for Super PLS on iPad
Samsung could supply its Super PLS LCD technology for an upcoming iPad, a Korean newspaper rumored late Wednesday. The company and Apple are reportedly in the "final stage" of talks for getting screens for the future tablet. The Korea Herald understood that Apple was "interested" in Super PLS for the wider viewing angles versus even the IPS panels it uses today.
One contact suggested that Samsung could no longer resist the commercial incentive of being a primarily display supplier for Apple. The Korean firm had strong Galaxy device shipments in 2010, but Apple's "strong influence" was likely enough to tip the balance. LG Display supplied most of the screens for the current iPad, but Super PLS could put it in the majority.
Neither Apple nor Samsung agreed to comment.
The claim is cast somewhat into doubt by claims that it would be for the next iPad. Apple is reportedly already producing the new model and would be far too late to adopt Super PLS for the current version. Its rumor would mostly be sustained by the recent possibility raised of a second iPad update this year, for which talks with Samsung would be more appropriately timed.
A switch would mean having to use a resolution under Super PLS' 1280x800 maximum but could lead to a tablet more easily seen outdoors through the brighter, more readily visible technology. Samsung would likely have to outsource some of the production to keep up with demand, but LG Display's special panel for the current iPad has already been contracted out to Samsung.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Nov 2008
There aren't very many companies that will
say no to a few billion dollars in cash up front for components. It's a win-win situation for both companies. In a way, it allows technology to advance faster since unsold components will be available to all device manufacturers. Samsung will be able to recover R&D costs much faster than usual dealing with Apple. Samsung's own products could be hit or miss and production rates wouldn't be nearly as high as Apple's.