Apple reportedly targets 2027 for an ultra-thin iPhone refresh using new OLED technology that could make displays brighter while consuming less power. The iPhone Air 2 would debut Samsung's Color Filter on Encapsulation (CoE) display tech, according to multiple reports citing supply chain sources.
The CoE technology removes the polarizer layer from traditional OLED panels, replacing it with color filters applied directly to the encapsulation layer. This change increases light transmittance while reducing power consumption, with some reports suggesting power savings of around 20 percent. Display assemblies become thinner as a result, enabling slimmer phone designs.
Apple's foldable iPhone, expected in late 2026, will reportedly be the first Apple device to use CoE technology. The iPhone Air 2 would follow in 2027, marking the 20th anniversary of the original iPhone. Samsung Display and LG Display are both developing CoE panels for future Apple devices, according to Korean industry reports.
Samsung already uses a similar technology called On-Cell Film (OCF) in its foldable phones. The Galaxy S26 Ultra, expected in February 2026, will be Samsung's first non-foldable phone with the technology. Apple will monitor market acceptance of Samsung's implementation before committing to the iPhone Air 2, sources suggest.
The original iPhone Air, released with the iPhone 17 lineup, reportedly suffered weak sales that prompted Apple to slash production. Rather than rushing a successor, Apple removed the Air model from the iPhone 18 lineup to refine the underlying technology. A final decision on the 2027 iPhone Air 2 is expected by the third quarter of this year.
Display suppliers are preparing for potential volume production. Samsung Display can already support CoE manufacturing but may need additional investments for Apple-scale orders. LG Display lacks the required production lines and is using part of a major investment fund to secure equipment at facilities in Paju and Vietnam.
The 2027 timing aligns with Apple's 20th iPhone anniversary plans. Reports indicate Apple may skip iPhone 19 branding entirely for a major redesign. An ultra-thin iPhone Air 2 could launch alongside other rumored upgrades including under-display Face ID and cameras.
CoE technology addresses key limitations of current OLED displays. Traditional polarizer layers block some light output while adding thickness. By eliminating this layer, displays achieve higher brightness without increased power draw. The thinner profile also provides more internal space for larger batteries or additional components.
Market acceptance remains uncertain. Both the iPhone Air and Samsung's Galaxy S25 Edge faced consumer skepticism about thin phone compromises, particularly regarding battery life. Improved display efficiency could help address these concerns while maintaining slim form factors.
Apple's display technology roadmap extends beyond CoE. The company is reportedly developing new LTPO panel technologies for 2027 iPhones, suggesting multiple display innovations could debut simultaneously. These advancements would support Apple's push toward all-screen designs with minimal bezels and hidden sensors.
