Samsung to Supply Micro-Curved OLED Panels for Apple’s 20th Anniversary iPhone

Apple is reportedly preparing a major design overhaul for its 20th anniversary iPhone, expected in 2027, and is likely to partner with Samsung Display for next-generation OLED technology.

According to supply chain leaks, Samsung Display will develop a custom quad-curved OLED panel featuring subtle micro-curves on all four edges. Unlike aggressive “waterfall” displays seen on some Android smartphones, this design is expected to maintain usability while still achieving an almost bezel-less look with minimal distortion.

New “Pol-less” OLED Technology

The display is also said to feature a pol-less OLED structure, removing the traditional polarizer layer. Instead, it may use COE (Color Filter on Encapsulation) technology, where the color filter is integrated into the encapsulation layer. This approach is expected to make the display:

• Thinner
• Brighter
• More power-efficient

However, removing the polarizer can increase reflections, so Apple is reportedly working on advanced anti-reflective coatings to balance visibility.

Advanced Display Engineering

Additional improvements being explored include:

• Enhanced light diffusion layers for uniform brightness
• Possible crater-shaped display structures for better light distribution
• Continued testing of under-display Face ID and camera technology (may not be ready in time for launch)

Apple’s 20th Anniversary Vision

The 2027 iPhone is expected to be one of Apple’s most significant redesigns yet, focusing on a futuristic near-borderless display experience. While Apple Inc. will handle overall product integration and software experience, Samsung Display is expected to lead the advanced panel manufacturing side.

Alongside this project, Apple is also rumored to be working on its first foldable iPhone and upcoming iPhone 18 series devices in the same timeline, making this one of the company’s most ambitious product cycles in years.