Samsung to Expand OLED Line, Make 14 and 16-Inch Panels for MacBooks

Last year, Samsung Display began the construction of the 8.6th generation (8.6G) organic light-emitting diode (OLED) production line. The company recently announced that the project is going smoothly, with plans to start mass production around the third quarter of next year. It will likely make 14-inch and 16-inch OLED panels for Apple’s next-gen MacBooks.

Samsung Display’s 8.6G OLED line is ideal for production efficiency and profitability

Previously, Samsung Display announced that it would remodel its existing liquid crystal display (LCD) line, L8, to create the new A6 line. This A6 line is now the larger 8.6G production line at Asan Campus in South Chungcheong Province. The company also announced an investment of 4.1 trillion won.

Lee Cheong, CEO of Samsung Display, recently expressed confidence in the company’s progress, saying that “We plan to mass-produce 8.6G around the third quarter of next year, and it’s going very well so far.” The new OLED production line uses 2290x2620mm glass plates, ideal for making panels for IT devices such as laptops, tablets, and monitors. The line will also improve production efficiency and profitability, allowing the company to meet demand for high-quality OLED panels.

Rumors suggest Samsung Display will supply Apple with 14-inch and 16-inch OLED panels for MacBooks by the end of Q2 2026. The company reportedly plans to begin pilot production on the A6 line later this year, with production of components in Q1 2026. Lee Cheong said, “We are eagerly anticipating it,” suggesting that the deal could happen soon.

Market research firm expects Apple could ship around 500,000 units of OLED MacBook Pro by the end of next year. If true, Samsung Display is likely to receive a substantial order, which could greatly boost its revenue. Meanwhile, Lee Cheong is optimistic about the division’s performance in the second half of the year, saying, “Our clients often release high-priced flagship products in the second half of the year”.