According to TheElec reports, Samsung Display and LG Display are trying to develop OLED panels that can provide higher light efficiency and longer life. The companies are the world’s largest makers of OLED panels for smartphones, tablets, laptops and TVs, and their products are used by several brands. Last year, Samsung introduced its Eco2 OLED panels, which are more energy efficient and are currently used in the Galaxy Z Flip 4 and Galaxy Z Fold 4.
Samsung Display and LG Display are reportedly working on an OLED panel that uses a low-refraction CPL (Covering Layer), an extremely thin layer that covers the top of the cathode and reduces the loss of light that is reflected by nearby electrodes when emitting light. The CPL currently in use has a high refractive index, and by adding a low-refractive CPL layer, light loss can be better minimized, resulting in improved optical efficiency, energy efficiency, and product life. However, adding a low-refraction CPL may further increase the cost and complexity of OLED panels.
It is noted that LG has already used a similar technology called MLA (microlens array) in its large-size OLED panels for TVs. This layer consists of billions of convex lenses that collect the light produced by the light-emitting layer and prevent it from reflecting around it. As a result, OLED panels with MLA can be up to 20% brighter while using the same amount of power.
Samsung Display and LG Display are reportedly in talks with their biggest customers, Apple and Samsung MX (smartphone division). If they agree to use higher-cost OLED panels, LG Display and Samsung Display could develop OLED panels for phones, tablets and even laptops.
Currently, the companies developing the CPL layer for OLED panels are DONG JIN Semiconductor, Hodogaya, Labto, and PNH Tech. DONG JIN Semiconductor, Hodogaya, and Labto have already approached Samsung Display, while PHN Tech is a member of LG Display’s supply chain. These smaller OLED material makers have already sent samples to LG Display and Samsung Display, and if Apple and Samsung MX agree, mass production of OLED panels with a low-refraction CPL layer could begin.
In the future, Samsung could introduce smartphones, tablets and laptops with the new OLED screens, which are brighter while consuming less energy and lasting longer.
