Samsung Display has confirmed it is on schedule to begin mass production of its 8.6-generation OLED panels by the third quarter of 2026, as reported by Chosun Biz. These panels feature a larger glass substrate size of 2290×2620mm—roughly 2.25 times bigger than the current sixth-generation substrates. This increase allows for greater efficiency, enabling more panels to be produced simultaneously and potentially reducing costs.
The company is investing approximately 4.1 trillion won (about $3 billion) in a new production line in Asan, South Chungcheong Province. Sample production and yield stabilization are already underway, positioning Samsung to meet rising demand for high-quality displays in premium devices.
A particularly intriguing aspect is Samsung Display’s preparation of foldable OLED panels for a “North American client,” widely speculated to be Apple. Reports suggest Samsung will be the exclusive supplier for Apple’s first foldable iPhone, rumored for a 2026 launch.
Samsung Display’s president Lee Cheong has emphasized the need for government support through tax incentives. They advocate extending the carryover period for tax credits, noting that recovering investments in new OLED lines can take over 15 years. Recently, Samsung secured a preliminary victory in a patent infringement lawsuit against BOE, reinforcing the importance of intellectual property protection in the display sector.
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