Struggling LCD panel maker Japan Display will reportedly begin to supply organic light-emitting diode (OLED) screens for the Apple Watch later this year.
Reuters reports that the supply deal would mark Japan Display’s foray into the OLED display market.
"JDI will not have any comments for specific transactions with customers," Japan Display said.
Japan Display has been providing LCDs for the iPhone XR, the only LCD model in Apple’s 2018 line-up.
The OLED display market is dominated by Samsung Display and LG Display, with Chinese players quickly catching up.
Samsung Display is currently the exclusive supplier of OLED panels for iPhones, while LG Display provides a majority of panels for the Apple Watch.
Japan Display has a small OLED pilot line at a smartphone screen plant in eastern Japan. The company is also seeking for a $990 million investment from a group that includes includes Taiwanese electronic component maker TPK Holding and Chinese investment fund Harvest Fund Management. Once the bailout is complete, the group would become Japan Display's top shareholder with a stake close to 50%.
The Nikkei business daily reported on Wednesday the company board would vote on investment plans by the start of next week.
