Apple’s ambition to launch a bezel-less iPhone between 2025 and 2026 has been well-documented. Still, recent updates from industry insiders suggest that even 2026 might be a stretch due to ongoing technological challenges. However, this narrative is not just about Apple; it’s about how Samsung Display is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Samsung Display, alongside LG Display, has been at the forefront of a technological revolution, developing what could be the next big leap in smartphone design: zero-bezel OLED displays. While Apple has been in the spotlight with plans to introduce these displays in future iPhones, the real story lies with the innovators behind the tech, Samsung Display.
An industry insider commented, “For a zero bezel iPhone to become reality, discussions with manufacturers like Samsung Display should have been finalized by now, but the dialogue continues.” This ongoing collaboration underscores Samsung’s pivotal role, not just as a supplier but as a leader in display technology innovation.
Samsung’s Technological Mastery:
To meet the zero bezel challenge, Samsung Display is tackling complex issues like thin film encapsulation (TFE) to shield OLED from environmental damage, and optical clear adhesive (OCA) technology for seamless lamination, all while ensuring antenna performance.
Among these, OCA has proven particularly challenging due to visual distortions on the edges, but Samsung is on the brink of breakthroughs that could redefine display aesthetics.
Beyond Apple’s Expectations:
While Apple seeks to maintain its signature flat and angular design, Samsung Display is exploring beyond, aiming for what some in the industry call a ‘pebble shape’—a nod to the seamless, curved displays already seen in Samsung’s own devices like the Galaxy Watch.
Unlike past endeavors with curved displays where visual effects like the ‘magnifying glass’ effect were issues, Samsung is now pioneering techniques to eliminate such drawbacks.
Samsung’s Ambitions:
Samsung’s innovations aren’t just for Apple; they’re for the future of Samsung devices. The under-panel camera (UPC) technology, which Samsung has been developing, aims to increase light transmission by over 50%, making true full-screen experiences possible without compromising on camera quality.
At the K-Display Business Forum last August, a Samsung Display official proudly stated, “We are preparing not only for Apple but also for our zero bezel concept in Samsung’s own products,” highlighting the need to optimize pixel structures, manage 3D lamination, and control edge brightness.
Looking Forward:
Samsung’s journey towards zero bezel isn’t just about catching up; it’s about leading. The company is already known for its groundbreaking work in AMOLED and foldable displays, and zero-bezel technology could be the next feather in its cap. Imagine Samsung’s future smartphones with displays that wrap around the edges without any visual compromise, offering users an immersive experience like never before.
For Samsung enthusiasts, this means potentially shorter, more ergonomic devices with larger screens, all while maintaining the high-quality display Samsung is renowned for. Samsung’s commitment to display innovation could soon bring the dream of a completely bezel-less Samsung device to life, setting new industry standards.
