Samsung Display To Reduce Foldables Cost
In a bid to cut production costs and potentially lead to more affordable foldable smartphones, Samsung Display is exploring a novel method for crafting the bezels of its foldable OLED panels, as reported by TheElec.
The South Korean tech giant is contemplating the adoption of inkjet printing technology to manufacture the bezels of its upcoming foldable mobile phones set to hit the market later this year, according to inside sources. This shift marks a departure from the previous use of Segyung Hitech’s micro dry process decoration (MDD) for bezel creation.
Until last year, Samsung Display relied on MDD to produce films that would later be cut to form the bezels. The ink necessary for bezel creation was embedded in these films. However, the move to inkjet printing brings about a significant change in the initial film’s length. Comparatively longer films are produced using inkjet printing, allowing for more bezel-forming films to be extracted from the original production. This efficiency in material usage directly contributes to cost savings, presenting an opportunity for Samsung to lower the price tag of its foldable smartphones.
Cost reduction has been a consistent request from Samsung to Samsung Display for their foldable OLED panels. The exploration of alternative manufacturing methods aligns with Samsung’s commitment to making foldable technology more accessible to a broader consumer base.
The bezels of OLED panels play a crucial role in concealing internal circuits and components. After the panels are encapsulated in thin films for protection against oxygen and water, the bezel films are attached. Subsequently, ultra-thin glasses are laminated onto the panels to complete the production process.
Samsung Display’s strategic move towards inkjet printing for bezel creation not only signifies a potential breakthrough in cost-effectiveness but also underscores the continuous innovation within the realm of foldable display technology. As the company navigates these advancements, consumers can anticipate more competitive pricing in the foldable smartphone market, making cutting-edge technology more accessible than ever before.