Universal Display (NASDAQ:OLED) Stock

Universal Display

Universal Display Corp researches, develops, and manufactures organic light-emitting diode, or OLED, technologies for use in displays for mobile phones, tablets, televisions, wearables, personal computers, automotive interiors, and the solid-state lighting market. OLED technologies are an alternative to light-emitting diode, or LED, technologies, in the solid-state lighting market, and liquid crystal displays in the flat-panel-display market. The Company has one reportable business segment being OLED technologies and materials. A large majority of the firm's revenue is generated in South Korea, with the rest coming from Japan, China, the United States, and other countries across the world.

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Universal Display Corporation - Common Stock

Universal Display Corp

Apple Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) has reportedly decided to incorporate&nbsp;organic light-emitting diode or OLED displays&nbsp;in all iPhone models, including the lower-priced iPhone SE, from 2025.
What Happened: This change will replace the current liquid crystal displays (LCDs) used in these devices, excluding Japanese panel suppliers, Japan Display Inc., and Sharp Corp., from Apple&#8217;s handset business, <a href="https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Supply-Chain/Japan-no-longer-iPhone-display-supplier-as-Apple-ends-LCD-use">reported</a> Nikkei Asia.
These firms, which once held a combined 70% share in iPhone displays, have recently been supplying&nbsp;LCDs only for the iPhone&nbsp;SE.
Apple has begun placing orders for OLED displays for the upcoming iPhone SE with China&#8217;s BOE Technology Group and South Korea&#8217;s LG Display Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LPL#NYSE">LPL</a>), the report noted, citing unnamed sources.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40673345/trump-misunderstands-taiwans-role-in-chip-industry-says-economy-minister-the-president-has-a-lot-on?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Misunderstands Taiwan&#8217;s Role In Chip Industry, Says Economy Minister</a>
This signifies the end of LCDs in iPhones, with all models, including the SE, standard, and premium Pro models, all of which will sport an OLED display starting next year.
South Korean and Chinese companies&nbsp;are the dominant makers of&nbsp;OLEDs, with Samsung Electronics holding&nbsp;about half of the iPhone&nbsp;OLED display market, LG Display with about 30%,&nbsp;and BOE around 20%. 
Neither Japan Display nor Sharp mass produces&nbsp;OLED displays for smartphones, and&nbsp;their supply of LCDs for&nbsp;iPhones is expected to end&nbsp;with the discontinuation of old&nbsp;SE models, the report stated.
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Why It Matters: This move by Apple comes just days before the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40572621/apple-september-9-glowtime-event-heres-everything-cupertino-is-expected-to-launch">company&#8217;s annual iPhone launch event</a>, named "Glowtime," scheduled for Sept. 9, 2024, where it plans to showcase a variety of new products, including the highly-anticipated iPhone 16 series. 
The shift to OLED displays could be seen as a response to increasing <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40674140/huawei-plans-to-one-up-apples-iphone-16-with-disruptive-product-launch-says-it-has-turned-science-fi">competition in the smartphone market</a>, particularly from Chinese tech heavyweight Huawei, which scheduled a product launch event on the same day as Apple&#8217;s iPhone 16 lineup reveal.
Previously it was reported that in the first three months of 2024, Apple&#8217;s flagship <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/04/38511556/what-is-going-on-with-apple-iphone-sales-drop-by-staggering-9-3m-units-globally-in-">product&#8217;s sales dropped by 16%</a>. 
However, Deepwater Asset Management&#8217;s Gene Munster has predicted that iPhone sales could increase by up to 15% next year, surpassing Wall Street&#8217;s 7% expectation. He expects the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/09/40696588/exclusive-apples-iphone-16-launch-will-be-disappointment-before-the-excitement-gene">iPhone 16 to prompt 10% of users </a>who planned to upgrade in 2026 to do so sooner.
Check out more of&nbsp;Benzinga&#8217;s&nbsp;Consumer Tech coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link</a>.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Unsplash

Tech

Media

AAPL

Apple Reportedly Plans To Switch To OLED For All iPhones Starting 2025, Not Just The Top-Tier Flagships

A new display technology called "PHOLED" is expected to launch commercially in 2024, after several years of development by the Universal Display Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OLED#NASDAQ">OLED</a>).
What Happened: The blue Phosphorescent OLED (PHOLED) technology is expected to become available to manufacturers in 2024, allowing them to overcome issues affecting OLED technology currently used across smartphones and TVs.
OLED (organic light emitting diode) technology suffers from longevity and power efficiency issues. Display burn-in issues are also possible – sometimes, these burn-ins can be temporary, but permanent burn-ins deteriorate the user experience.
PHOLED technology is expected to fix these problems, but making it commercially viable has proven challenging.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/12/36358585/google-will-soon-let-you-track-your-android-phones-battery-health-just-like-apples-iphones">Google Will Soon Let You Track Your Android Phone&#8217;s Battery Health, Just Like Apple&#8217;s iPhones</a>
One of the problems faced while developing PHOLED was the difficulty in getting the blue color to work without damaging the material that is used to generate it.
"We've had a lot of bright chemists and physicists working on this problem for years," Universal Display's vice president of business development, Michael Hack, <a href="https://spectrum.ieee.org/blue-pholed">told</a> IEEE Spectrum.
According to Hack, the company has now figured out how to fix the shortcomings of PHOLED technology.
"A lot of research groups have worked on it, many people have published on it, but we believe we have it," Hack said.
Universal Display's Hack says the company is on the verge of initiating mass production of this technology.
"The more energy involved, the more likely bad things can happen, so it's been hard to get long lifetimes. But we will have it available in 2024," Hack added.
Universal Display <a href="https://ir.oled.com/newsroom/press-releases/press-release-details/2023/Universal-Display-Corporation-to-Showcase-Phosphorescent-OLED-Advances-and-Organic-Vapor-Jet-Printing-Milestone-Achievements-at-SID-Display-Week-2023/default.aspx">showcased</a> its advances in PHOLED technology in May at the SID Display Week event.
Why It Matters: The new PHOLEDs bring numerous advantages, including a more stable pixel structure, the potential for higher-resolution displays, a projected 25% efficiency boost, and a decrease in heat production, which should prolong the lifespan of adjacent electronics.
All these factors combined should improve traditional OLED displays&#8217; longevity, brightness, and power efficiency.
Reduced heat generation should also improve the lifespan of other components like the battery and chipset, among others – heat is <a href="https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/physicists-explain-how-heat-kills-machines-and-electronics/">known</a> to slow and even damage electronic components.
How long manufacturers take to implement this technology into their products remains to be seen.
Image Credits &#8211; Shutterstock
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Consumer Tech coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech">following this link</a>.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/12/36376742/apple-executives-spill-the-beans-heres-why-the-iphone-makers-chips-outshine-rivals">Apple Executives Spill The Beans: Here&#8217;s Why The iPhone Maker&#8217;s Chips Outshine Rivals</a>
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

A New Tech Could Fix The Two Major Issues With OLED Screens Of Smartphones And TVs

In a significant move, insiders have revealed that Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) intends to incorporate OLED (organic light-emitting diode) screens into its iPads and MacBooks, an initiative that could drastically transform the $150 billion display industry.
What Happened: Apple will reportedly begin employing OLED displays in its iPads starting next year, Nikkei Asia <a href="https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Supply-Chain/Apple-to-switch-to-OLED-displays-for-iPads-and-MacBooks">reported</a> on Friday. Furthermore, Apple is working on creating an OLED MacBook, which is slated for production by the second half of 2025.
This shift towards OLED is a major victory for OLED manufacturers Samsung Display and LG Display from South Korea and China&#8217;s BOE Technology Holding. However, it could pose a threat to display manufacturers such as JDI and Sharp of Japan and AUO and Innolux of Taiwan, who have a limited presence in the OLED market.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/12/36191863/email-is-passe-tesla-apple-and-others-are-now-hiring-talent-over-dms-on-x?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Email Is Passe: Tesla, Apple And Others Are Now Hiring Talent Over DMs On X</a>
Moreover, Apple is considering the development of foldable iPads once OLED screens are incorporated, although a definite timeline hasn&#8217;t been set. Companies such as Huawei and Samsung have already embraced OLED displays for tablets, strengthening the Chinese display supply chain and signaling a shift from LCD to OLED due to Samsung&#8217;s dominance in OLED technology and extensive production capacity.
The transition of Apple&#8217;s iPhones to OLED displays in 2020 had a significant impact on the global display industry. Experts predict a similar disruption with the introduction of OLED screens in iPads, the world&#8217;s leading tablet.
Why It Matters: Apple, grappling with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/23/12/36119128/apple-reportedly-plans-exciting-new-ipad-and-macbook-air-upgrades-early-2024-a-strategy-to-overc">declining sales in its Mac and iPad segments</a>, plans to launch a series of new models and enhancements in early 2024. The last quarter saw a 34% fall in Mac sales, dropping to 7.61 billion, while iPad revenue experienced a 10% decrease to $6.44 billion. This move to OLED displays could be a part of Apple&#8217;s broader strategy to reverse this sales decline.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/12/36194655/a-10-minute-phone-call-killed-a-pixel-6-pro-the-aftermath-shows-how-badly-googles-custom-chip-overhe?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">A 10-Minute Phone Call Killed A Pixel 6 Pro: The Aftermath Shows How Badly Google&#8217;s Custom Chip Overheated</a>
Image Credits &#8211; Shutterstock
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General

MacBooks, iPads May Soon Have OLED Screens As Apple Reportedly Sets To Revolutionize Display Industry

Japanese video gaming company Nintendo Co (OTC: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ntdoy#OTC">NTDOY</a>) on Monday denied reports that claimed profit margins of the new Switch OLED model would be higher compared with the current version, which is about $50 cheaper.
What Happened: Nintendo said in a tweet that the recently announced Nintendo Switch (OLED Model) will launch in October, and the company does not plan to launch any other model at this time.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A news report on July 15, 2021(JST) claimed that the profit margin of the Nintendo Switch (OLED Model) would increase compared to the Nintendo Switch. To ensure correct understanding among our investors and customers, we want to make clear that the claim is incorrect. (1/2)
&mdash; 任天堂株式会社（企業広報・IR） (@NintendoCoLtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/NintendoCoLtd/status/1416986986464776196?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/21/07/22022907/netflix-is-only-the-latest-faang-stock-to-target-video-game-development-morgan-stan" style="text-decoration:none">Netflix Is Only The Latest FAANG Stock To Target Video Game Development: Morgan Stanley</a>
Why It Matters: Analyst reports had estimated that upgrades to the new Switch will cost about $10 more per unit to produce, as per a Bloomberg&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-07-14/nintendo-switch-s-big-price-hike-takes-gamers-into-new-territory?sref=TBDibEcD" style="text-decoration:none">report</a>&nbsp;&mdash; implying the company could earn higher profits after pricing the new model at $350.
Nintendo is counting on the new Switch to keep the sales momentum going after the pandemic-fueled gaming boom. Rivals Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/msft#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) and Sony Group Corp (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/sony#NYSE">SONY</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/20/11/18440087/microsoft-sonys-big-woe-with-playstation-5-new-xbox-series-high-demand-very-low-supply">launched new consoles</a> last year in PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and Series S.&nbsp;
Price Action: NTDOY shares closed 0.84% lower at $70.55 on Friday.
For news coverage in French, Italian, or Spanish, check out&nbsp;<a href="https://fr.benzinga.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Benzinga France</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://it.benzinga.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Benzinga Italia</a>, or&nbsp;<a href="https://es.benzinga.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Benzinga Espa&ntilde;a</a>.

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Nintendo Says Claims Of Switch OLED Model Having Higher Profit Margin Than Regular Model Are 'Incorrect'

Apple Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/aapl#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) has plans to introduce OLED displays in some iPads beginning next year, 9to5Mac&nbsp; <a href="https://9to5mac.com/2021/05/31/rumor-ipad-models-oled-display/" style="text-decoration-line:none">reported</a> Monday, citing South Korea&rsquo;s ETNews.
What Happened: The 9to5Mac reported, citing&nbsp;Korean media, that Apple decided to apply OLED instead of Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) on some iPad models and that there is an agreement between Apple and display companies on production and delivery.
Previously, the publication had pointed to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo saying that the 2022 iPad Air will come with an OLED display.
See also:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-buy-apple-stock/">How To Buy Apple Stock</a> 
Why It Matters: Apple <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/21/04/20712375/apple-unveils-airtags-new-imac-ipad-pro-apple-tv-4k-and-more" style="text-decoration-line:none">launched</a> a 12.9 inch 5G-enabled iPad Pro in April, which comes with mini-LED technology, as per 9to5Mac.
According to Kuo, Apple does not plan to bring OLEDs to productivity devices due to burn-in worries.
Korea&rsquo;s Samsung and LG Display Co, Ltd (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/lpl#NYSE">LPL</a>) are the current suppliers of OLED technology to the Tim Cook-led company.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/21/04/20572194/apples-upcoming-high-end-ipad-to-face-low-initial-supplies-over-production-woes-report?utm_source=dlvr.it&amp;utm_medium=facebook" style="text-decoration-line:none">Apple&#39;s Upcoming High-End iPad To Face Low Initial Supplies Over Production Woes: Report</a>
It is noteworthy that Samsung&rsquo;s Galaxy Tab S7 plus tablet, launched in 2020, has a 120 Hz OLED display and 5G.
Price Action: Apple shares closed 0.53% lower at $124.61 on Friday in the regular session.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/21/02/19742625/apple-looks-to-make-ipads-in-india-this-year-in-a-shift-away-from-china-report" style="text-decoration-line:none">Apple Looks To Make iPads in India This Year, In A Shift Away From China: Report</a>

Rumor Has It: Apple To Debut OLED Displays In iPad Next Year

Apple Inc.&rsquo;s (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/aapl#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) so-called iPhone 13 model&nbsp;will feature low-temperature polycrystalline oxide or LPTO displays, The Elec <a href="http://www.thelec.net/news/articleView.html?idxno=2535">reported</a> Monday, citing a UBI Research note.
What Happened: Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. (OTC: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ssnlf#OTC">SSNLF</a>) will convert its OLED display manufacturing line dedicated to its largest customer Apple into one that makes LTPO thin-film transistor OLED displays within the first half of this year, according to the report. However, the production capacity of the line will drop to 70,000 substrates per month from the earlier 105,000.
Samsung uses the same technology on its Galaxy Note 20 devices, while Apple uses this technology in the Apple Watch.
The Cupertino-based tech giant&nbsp;reportedly plans to use the displays in its higher-end iPhone 13 devices that are scheduled to be launched later this year.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/21/03/20270302/apple-discontinues-the-512gb-1tb-ssd-imacs-following-similar-fate-faced-by-the-imac-pro">Apple Discontinues The 512GB, 1TB SSD iMACs Following Similar Fate Faced By The iMAC Pro</a>
Why It Matters: The introduction of the new LPTO displays will enable higher refresh rates and lower power consumption on the iPhone 13 devices. LTPO will support variable screen refresh rates of up to 120Hz.
Citing analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, 9to5Mac <a href="https://9to5mac.com/2021/03/01/kuo-iphone-13-series-to-feature-smaller-notch-120hz-display-larger-batteries-more/">reported</a> earlier this month that the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max display will use more power-efficient LTPO technology and add 120Hz support, similar to the ProMotion display on the iPad Pro.
On Monday, Wedbush analyst Daniel Ives <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/21/03/20277319/will-apples-iphone-13-launch-in-september-this-analyst-thinks-so">reiterated</a> his earlier view that the iPhone 13 will likely have a one terabyte storage option, double that of the highest Pro storage capacity currently available. The device anticipated to launch in September&nbsp;will also include a number of enhancements with Lidar across all models, as per Ives.
Price Action: Apple shares closed 2.8% higher on Monday at $123.39.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/21/03/20271423/apple-fined-2m-in-brazil-for-shipping-iphone-12-without-charger">Apple Fined $2M In Brazil For Shipping iPhone 12 Without Charger</a>

SSNLF

Apple's iPhone 13 To Feature Samsung's LTPO Displays: Report

Apple Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/aapl#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/tsm#NYSE">TSM</a>) are reportedly working on the development of ultra-advanced display technology in Taiwan. 
What Happened: The Tim Cook-led company is planning to use the micro OLED displays in future augmented reality devices, according to Nikkei Asia, Reuters <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-apple-tsmc-oled/apple-partners-with-tsmc-to-develop-ultra-advanced-displays-nikkei-idUSKBN2AA096?il=0" style="text-decoration-line:none">reported</a>.
The project is still at a trial production stage and it will take years to reach the mass manufacturing stage, as per Reuters.
Why It Matters: The micro OLED displays are thinner, smaller and use less power, and are apt for use in AR devices, noted Reuters.
<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-buy-apple-stock/">See also:&nbsp;How To Buy Apple Stock</a>
The iPhone maker is also planning a virtual reality device that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/21/02/19505402/apples-vr-device-to-cost-3-000-and-feature-changeable-headbands-report" style="text-decoration-line:none">will retail for nearly $3,000</a>, according to Business Insider.&nbsp;
That headset reportedly is equipped with high quality 8K displays.
Apple plans to launch the VR headset in 2022 and it may <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/21/01/19268998/apple-vr-headset-to-arrive-in-2022-and-at-a-steep-price-report" style="text-decoration-line:none">pave the way</a> for sales of augmented reality glasses, according to Bloomberg.&nbsp;
Price Action: Apple shares closed nearly 0.7% lower at $136.01 on Tuesday.

Apple Developing Ultra Advanced Displays With TSMC For AR Devices: Report

<ul>
<li>LG Display Co Ltd.&nbsp;(NYSE:&nbsp;<a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/lpl#NYSE" style="color: rgb(14, 16, 26); background: transparent; margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt;; color: #4a6ee0;" target="_blank">LPL</a>)&nbsp;<a class="editor-rtfLink" href="http://www.lgdisplay.com/eng/prcenter/newsView?articleMgtNo=5303" style="color: rgb(14, 16, 26); background: transparent; margin-top:0pt; margin-bottom:0pt;; color: #4a6ee0;" target="_blank">posted</a>&nbsp;year-on-year revenue growth of 16% to $6.74 billion (KRW 7,461 billion) in the fourth quarter of FY20, beating Street estimates by $20 million.</li>
<li>Global remote working trends led to robust demand for TV and IT products, catapulting into higher shipments for both large-size OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) and P-OLED (Polymer Light-Emitting Diodes).</li>
<li>The panel area shipment rose by 5%, and the ASP (average selling price) per square meter climbed by 12% quarter-on-quarter.</li>
<li>Strong shipments, swelling panel prices, and the Guangzhou OLED plant going into full-scale production translated into an operating profit growth of 62% to $618.4 million (KRW 685 billion).</li>
<li>The EBITDA rose by 203% to $1.6 billion (KRW 1,774 billion).</li>
<li>The net income stood at KRW 621 billion ($560.7 million) versus a net loss of KRW 1,817 billion ($1.64 billion) last year.</li>
<li>The EPS stood at KRW 1,735 ($1.57), exceeding consensus estimates by $1.28 and compared to a loss per share of KRW 5,078 ($4.59) in Q4FY19.</li>
<li>LG projected a flat area shipment on a quarter-on-quarter basis and a high single-digit decline in blended ASP for Q1FY21 due to the industry&#39;s seasonality.</li>
<li>Price action:&nbsp;LG shares were lower by 6.51% at $9.76 on the last check Wednesday.</li>
</ul>

Earnings

Guidance

LG Display Beats On Q4 Earnings, Clocks Record EBITDA, Expects High Single-Digit Decline In Q1 Blended ASP

Apple, Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/aapl#NYSE">AAPL</a>) is hosting the highly anticipated &ldquo;Gather Round&rdquo; event Wednesday to announce details of its newest products, including the rumored reveal of three new iPhones.
While <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/aapl">Apple</a> shares will remain a main focal point for investors up to and following the event, many other stocks have the potential to move based on the announcements made in Cupertino.&nbsp;
<h3>Suppliers</h3>
<ul>
<li>Skyworks Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/swks#NASDAQ">SWKS</a>) supplies radio frequency chips that are used in iPhones. Earlier this year, following strong Apple earnings, Skyworks stock surged 13 percent.</li>
<li>Since the inclusion of organic light-emitting diode, or OLED, screens in Apple products, Universal Display Corporation (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/oled#NASDAQ">OLED</a>) shares have been far from consistent. From a 50-percent drop in the first half of 2018&nbsp;to&nbsp;recent 12-percent growth, it&#39;s apparent that this stock is susceptible to market changes.</li>
<li>Cirrus Logic, Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/crus#NASDAQ">CRUS</a>) recently announced its plans to supply noise-cancelling chips in Apple&rsquo;s newest line of wireless AirPods. Cirrus shares are up to $41.25, from as low as $35.47 before the news. Shares are currently down over 2 percent leading up to the event.</li>
<li>Qorvo, Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/qrvo#NASDAQ">QRVO</a>) rocketed earlier this year following the announcement of a big contract with Apple. Shares were up over 18 percent in light of the deal.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Competitors</h3>
<ul>
<li>Streaming services Apple Music and Spotify Technology (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/spot#NYSE">SPOT</a>) are competing head-to-head.&nbsp;Announcements related to Apple Music logistics&nbsp;or improved product capabilities could move&nbsp;Spotify shares.</li>
<li>The Apple Watch and&nbsp;Fitbit Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/fit#NYSE">FIT</a>) products represent the main contenders in the wearable technology sector. Competition between the two will be reliant on product development, pricing, reactions to potential <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/18/07/12058643/how-the-tariff-threats-could-impact-smartwatches">tariff threats</a> and other factors&nbsp;within the increasingly competitive landscape.</li>
<li>After a disappointing earnings report and the impending Apple announcements, Sonos, Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/sono#NASDAQ">SONO</a>) shares were down over 20 percent Tuesday. Updates on Apple&rsquo;s HomePod may create headwinds for Sono&rsquo;s product line.</li>
</ul>
Be&nbsp;sure to check back with Benzinga for coverage and updates on the &ldquo;Gather Round&rdquo; event.&nbsp;
Related Links:&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/18/08/12286899/what-to-expect-from-apples-sept-12-gather-round-event">What To Expect From Apple&#39;s Sept. 12 &#39;Gather Round&#39; Event</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/18/09/12337283/analysts-expect-rollout-of-new-iphones-at-apples-gather">Analysts Expect Rollout Of New iPhones At Apple&#39;s &#39;Gather Round&#39; Event Wednesday</a>
Apple CEO Tim Cook at the WWDC 2018. Photo courtesy of Apple.&nbsp;

Events

CRUS

QRVO

SONO

SPOT

SWKS

Apple's Special Event: Stocks To Watch

For the first time ever, Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="/stock/aapl#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) may be looking to design and produce displays for its devices at a secret manufacturing facility in California, <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-03-19/apple-is-said-to-develop-displays-to-replace-samsung-screens">Bloomberg reports.</a>
<h3>
	What Happened</h3>
Apple&#39;s secret manufacturing facility is testing screens for use in future devices as part of the company&#39;s goal of significantly investing in the development of next-generation MicroLED screens, sources close to the matter told Bloomberg. If reports are accurate, Apple&#39;s internally-made MicroLED screens could displace its current provider for screens, Universal Display Corporation (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="/stock/oled#NASDAQ">OLED</a>).
<h3>
	Why It&#39;s Important</h3>
As it stands now, every smartphone maker is able to buy an OLED or LCD screen from companies like Universal Display, Ray Soneira of DisplayMate Technologies told Bloomberg. But in the highly competitive smartphone market, Apple&#39;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/iphone">iPhone</a> and other devices could stand out in the space by controlling its own in-house MicroLED technology.
Universal Display&#39;s stock <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/oled">fell more than 9 percent</a>&nbsp;early&nbsp;Monday morning.
<h3>
	What&#39;s Next</h3>
Apple&#39;s push to make its own display technology in-house is in no way guaranteed, according to Bloomberg&#39;s Mark Gurman. By designing the technology itself, Apple could &quot;run into insurmountable hurdles&quot; that&#39;s already an expensive initiative. Apple&#39;s facility in California is too small for mass-production, so ultimately it may have no choice but to outsource production.
Nevertheless, the project is &quot;big enough to get through the engineering builds [and] lets us keep everything in-house during the development stages,&quot; a person told Bloomberg.
Shares of Universal Display traded around $115.60 at time of publication, down 6.7 percent.
<il>Related Links:</il>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/18/02/11266712/how-to-trade-the-apple-supply-chain-according-to-bernst">How To Trade The Apple Supply Chain, According To Bernstein</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/emerging-markets/17/09/10100742/apples-suppliers-are-feeling-the-heat-amid-a-poor-iphone-8-d">Apple&#39;s Suppliers Are Feeling The Heat Amid A Poor iPhone 8 Debut</a>

Rumors

Universal Display Under Pressure Amid Report Apple Wants To Develop Its Own Screens

Applied Materials, Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="/stock/amat#NASDAQ">AMAT</a>) reported <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/17/11/10803851/applied-materials-ends-the-year-with-another-beat-and-r">better-than-expected fourth quarter earnings</a> Nov. 16. Revenue grew 20 percent year-over-year.
The Analyst
Wells Fargo&#39;s <a href="https://www.tipranks.com/analysts/david-wong">David Wong</a>&nbsp;initiated coverage of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/amat">Applied Materials</a> with an Outperform rating and $65 price target.&nbsp;
<h3>
	The Thesis</h3>
Applied Materials will continue to see high growth in the near term, Wong said. (See Wong&#39;s track record <a href="http://www.tipranks.com/analysts/david-wong">here</a>.)&nbsp;
Wells Fargo projects the display equipment segment of Applied Materials&nbsp;will grow as the transition to OLED displays drives market growth, the analyst said.&nbsp;
Fundamentally high volatility and the cyclical nature of the semiconductor equipment industry are key risks for the stock, Wong said. The electronic display markets are highly leveraged to smartphones and televisions, which creates both volume opportunity and demand volatility.
<h3>
	The Price Action</h3>
The stock is trading around 1 percent higher Wednesday and is down around 16 percent from its November highs.
Related Links:&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/17/12/10874386/rotation-rotation-rotation-value-is-the-new-tech">Rotation, Rotation, Rotation: Value Is The New Tech</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/17/11/10805048/analyst-for-applied-materials-every-year-is-a-peak-year">Analyst: For Applied Materials, &#39;Every Year Is A Peak Year&#39;</a>

CNBC

AMAT

Applied Materials Outperforms Despite Volatility, Says Wells Fargo

Applied Materials, Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="/stock/amat#NASDAQ">AMAT</a>) reported Thursday a top- and bottom-line beat in its <a href="https://www.investors.com/stock-lists/stock-spotlight/applied-materials-tops-fiscal-fourth-quarter-sales-earnings-targets/">fiscal fourth quarter earnings report</a> due to strong demand from semiconductor and display equipment.
<h3>
	The Analyst</h3>
KeyBanc Capital Markets&#39; Weston Twigg maintains an Overweight rating on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/amat">Applied Materials&#39; stock</a> with a price target boosted from $59 to $67.
<h3>
	The Thesis</h3>
Applied Materials&#39; earnings came in &quot;significantly&quot; ahead of consensus estimates as demand trends were &quot;very strong&quot; across both the <a href="http://www.benzinga.com/topic/semiconductors">semiconductor</a> and display equipment markets, Twigg said in a note. The company&#39;s momentum is likely to continue into 2018 as the company boosted its semiconductor equipment demand outlook above the $90 billion level for 2017 and 2018 combined, but this could prove to be conservative.
Applied Material&#39;s 2018 revenue guidance for the display business implies it will grow by more than 30 percent, which marks an improvement from management&#39;s prior projection of up at least 30 percent, the analyst said. The demand is being driven by mobile OLED and large Gen 10.5 TV facilities and this bullish outlook is believable despite a view that Samsung&#39;s OLED capital expenditure will decline in 2018.
The company&#39;s earnings report also shows the company continues to generate &quot;meaningful&quot; cash and ongoing return to shareholders will remain a focal point, Twigg said. As such, Applied Materials should be considered as &quot;one of the best ways to invest in semiconductor equipment.&quot;
<h3>
	Price Action</h3>
Shares of Applied Materials were trading higher by more than 3 percent early Friday morning at $59.65, which is above the stock&#39;s 52-week high of $58.00.
<il>Related Links:</il>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/17/11/10803679/31-stocks-moving-in-fridays-pre-market-session">31 Stocks Moving In Friday&#39;s Pre-Market Session</a>
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Analyst Color

Applied Materials Ends The Year With Another Beat And Raise Quarter

Breaking from the view held by many other Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="/stock/aapl#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) analyst, BMO Capital Markets&rsquo; <a href="https://www.tipranks.com/analysts/tim-long">Tim Long</a> believes that the iPhone 8 will ship on time in September, although in limited supply, rather than be delayed until October.
Long reiterated an Outperform rating and $170 price target.
<h3>A Look At Q3 Earnings</h3>
Apple is set to report its third-quarter earnings on Aug. 1 after the market closes.
Long expects to see sales come in at around $45.7 billion, about $80 million <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/17/07/9790344/if-you-believe-sell-side-iphone-8-scenarios-apple-is-hea">above the consensus view</a>.
Despite the slightly bullish sales estimate, Long expects EPS to be slightly below consensus at $1.55 due to slightly lower margins.
Like most Apple followers, the analyst believes the company will reveal two new phones, a standard &ldquo;S&rdquo; upgrade and a higher-end &ldquo;iPhone Pro.&rdquo;
<a href="https://www.tipranks.com/analysts/tim-long"><img src="/files/images/2017/July/24/tipranks.png" width="350" height="35" alt="tipranks.png" /></a>
&ldquo;We believe the models will be announced and available for pre-order simultaneously &hellip; in September,&rdquo; said Long in a note.
The new iPhone is widely assumed to be featuring an edge-to-edge OLED display, but has been a sticking point for production ramps.
Related Link: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/17/07/9784560/apples-next-iphone-launch-cycle-might-resemble-that-of-i">Apple&#39;s Next iPhone Launch Cycle Might Resemble That Of iPhone 4</a>
<h3>Looking Forward: &lsquo;Stock-Outs&rsquo; To Continue</h3>
&ldquo;We believe production capacity will continue to ramp throughout the December quarter,&rdquo; said Long, but the analyst expects the company to continue expecting supply of the new phones to run out through the first half of calendar year 2018.
Long cut back his estimates for Q4, and now expects sales to be $46.94 billion, $300 million below consensus.
Long sees EPS for fiscal 2017 and 2018 above the Street&rsquo;s forecasts, at $8.90 and $10.89 respectively.
<h3>Production Woes May End Soon</h3>
Apple is currently completely reliant on Samsung for the production of OLED screens, but recently bought special machinery used to produce them, according to an <a href="http://www.digitimes.com/news/a20170724VL203.html">ET News report</a>.
The machines will be used in a research and development facility Apple is setting up in Taiwan, dedicated to OLED technology.
It&rsquo;s unlikely Apple will seek to produce the screens itself. The company has a history of licensing and leasing its equipment to other companies, like Foxconn, which produce the needed components.
Regardless of the formal setup, Apple may soon see significant easing in its OLED supply constraints.
Keep up with earnings season, analyst coverage and more in real-time with <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro</a>.
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<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/17/07/9801050/if-the-iphone-8-is-delayed-will-anyone-care">If The iPhone 8 Is Delayed, Will Anyone Care?</a>

Previews

Reiteration

BMO Previews Apple Earnings: 'OLED On Time But Limited'

Even with possible iPhone 8 OLED delays, Citi analyst <a href="https://www.tipranks.com/analysts/jim-suva">Jim Suva</a> expects demand to exceed supply for the 10th-anniversary smartphone causing&nbsp;him to reiterate his Buy rating and $160 price target on Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="/stock/aapl#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>).
<h3>Notable Comments</h3>
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;We expect demand to outstrip supply as customers await the 10-year anniversary OLED version of the phone,&rdquo; said Suva.</li>
<li>Suva expects volatility in the coming months, which he believes could create an attractive entry point to invest in Apple.</li>
<li>Suva reduced September iPhone unit estimates to 40 million but increased December estimates to 89 million.</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://www.tipranks.com/analysts/jim-suva"><img src="/files/images/2017/June/12/tipranks.png" width="350" height="35" alt="tipranks.png" /></a>
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Upcoming Volatility In Apple Could Create Attractive Entry Point Ahead Of iPhone 8 OLED Launch

The iPhone frenzy is rising to feverish pitch, as iConic Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="/stock/aapl#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) is working toward launching its 10th anniversary rendition of the smartphone. The clamor refuses to die down, despite the likely launch date still being five months away.
<h3>Raising Price Target</h3>
Even as customers and the Street wait on the product, sell-side analysts are working overtime, making educated and informed guesses on the product. In a note released on Friday, Nomura Securities raised its price target for Apple, citing its expectations for a stronger <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/17/01/8944995/super-8-apples-next-iphone-cycle-something-to-look-forwa"> iPhone 8 cycle. </a>
<h3>Launch Date, Pricing</h3>
Apple traditionally launches its product in the first or second week of September, so that it can capitalize on the holiday frenzy. Some reports suggest the launch date this time around could be pushed forward. Rumor has it Apple could choose a June 29 release date, the same day the first iPhone was launched ten years ago. 
Dubbed the iPhone 8, this phone is considered to be a radically redesigned model, with several breakthrough features, including the curved OLED screen, incorporated in it. A report in the Fast Company indicated that the newest <a href="https://www.fastcompany.com/3068004/heres-why-apples-10th-anniversary-iphone-will-likely-cost-more-than-1000">iPhone </a> could <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/17/02/9014115/apples-iphone-x-to-cost-1-000">cost over $1,000</a>, given its design and feature intensiveness.
<h3>‘Super' Super Cycle</h3>
Analyst Jeffrey Kvaal said his analysis of App store data and recent Asia Tour insight fuel his conviction that the iPhone 8 super cycle could be significantly larger than consensus expectations.
Accordingly, the analyst raised the high-end of his estimates. The fiscal year 2018 earnings per share estimate is at $11.01. The analyst also raised his price target for Apple shares to $165, while remaining at Buy. 
Related Links: 
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<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/17/02/8977973/apple-stock-ripe-for-picking-as-iphone-8-cycle-looms">Apple Stock Ripe For Picking As iPhone 8 Cycle Looms </a> 
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/17/03/9202272/analysts-respond-to-apples-mid-cycle-iphone-refresh">Analysts Respond To Apple's Mid-Cycle iPhone Refresh </a>

Expectations Increase For Apple's iPhone 8 Cycle; Nomura Lifts Price Target To $165

The evolution of technology is breathtaking, going beyond the imagination of even the most brilliant human minds. One technology used for creating digital displays in devices ranging from TVs to computer monitors (to mobiles to hand-held consoles to PDAs, etc.) is now making waves and is adopted by many technology giants, as they warm to its innovative, cost-effective and utility appeal.
<h3>The Technology</h3>
OLED, which is the acronym for <a href="http://www.oled-info.com/">Organic Light Emitting Diodes</a>, are made from organic materials that emit light when electricity is applied through these. This technology has an edge over LCD, because they do not require backlight and filers unlike LCD displays. 
Consequently, they are:
<ul>
<li>Simpler to make.</li>
<li>Thinner.</li>
<li>More efficient.</li>
<li>Have great picture quality.</li>
<li>Brilliant colors.</li>
<li>Infinite contrast.</li>
<li>Fast response rate.</li>
<li>Wide viewing angles.</li>
</ul>
For those hard pressed for space, there is salvation in sight. These are in fact flexible and foldable.
Commenting on the technology, UBS said in a research note released last Friday that OLED is at a tipping point for revolutionizing consumer interfaces. The firm expects rapid OLED propagation within the broader smartphone market.
<h3>OLED To Rejuvenate Apple's Products' Design</h3>
Analyst Nicolas Gaudois sees Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="/stock/aapl#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>)'s adoption of OLED displays in 2017 as rejuvenating Apple products' designs and providing the impetus for a re-accelerating replacement cycle. The analyst sees substantial upside to his forecasts, given the emergence of virtual reality, which OLED is best suited to, and the possibility of foldable devices branching into a totally new product category. The analyst also believes flexible OLED will be used significantly in automotive, commercial and other applications.
<h3>OLED-Boost To iPhone</h3>
UBS expects an above-consensus OLED-induced re-acceleration in the iPhone cycle for <a href="http://www.benzinga.com/news/16/10/8566705/report-apples-next-phone-will-feature-an-oled-screen">Apple</a>. Specifically, the firm expects 10&ndash;13 percent year-over-year iPhone unit growth in calendar year 2017 and 2018 following 8 percent growth in calendar year 2016. The firm estimates a 3&ndash;5 basis point-boost from OLED to its smartphone shipment estimates, with component suppliers benefiting by $4 billion to $7 billion per year.
Assuming a 67 penetration for OLED smartphone shipments in 2020, up from 20 percent in 2015, the firm estimates shipments of 1 billion for these smartphones. UBS also noted that the bulk of the OLED manufacturing equipment orders are from Samsung, with the company to be Apple's sole supplier in 2017. In 2018, Apple will have LG Display Co Ltd. (ADR) (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="/stock/lpl#NYSE">LPL</a>) as its second source, the firm added.
<h3> Long Investment Cycle For Equipment Makers</h3>
Based on this assumption, UBS expects Apple might come out with two iPhone models in 2017 using OLED. Although Chinese panel makers are expected to contribute to the bulk of OLED investment, the firm is of the view that competitive gap with <a href="http://www.patentlyapple.com/patently-apple/2016/10/samsung-and-lg-invest-us116-billion-in-flexible-oleds-to-secure-orders-for-apples-iphone-8-and-beyond.html">Samsung/LGD </a>will remain for some time. UBS estimates that OLED panel makers have a long investment cycle before them, as they might have to expend another $40 billion in manufacturing equipment by 2020, which is not being currently discounted by equipment stocks.
<h3>Winners Vs. Losers</h3>
<ul>
<li>UBS recommends Apple and suppliers, including Taiwan Semiconductor Mfg. Co. Ltd. (ADR)(NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="/stock/tsm#NYSE">TSM</a>), Pegatron, Sony Corp (ADR)(NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="/stock/sne#NYSE">SNE</a>), Alps, Sumitomo Chemical and Largan into 2017.</li>
<li>Among OLED equipment suppliers, the firm recommends Applied Materials, Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="/stock/amat#NASDAQ">AMAT</a>) and Wonik IPS.</li>
<li>UBS initiated Viatron with a Buy rating.</li>
<li>The firm initiated AP Systems at Neutral, citing valuation.</li>
<li>Among panel makers, UBS termed Samsung and LCD as winners.</li>
<li>LCD panel vendors such as AUOM Innolux AND JDI may lose out in the transition, according to UBS.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Apple: Buy, $127 Price Target</h3>
Steve Milunovich estimates 2017 earnings per share of $9 for Apple, and for 2018, he estimates $10.50, representing 16 percent growth. The analyst believes Apple shares do not discount potential 2018 growth, capturing OLED refresh cycle for the iPhone.
<h3>UBS Remains Positive On Samsung Shares</h3>
UBS estimates production of 120,000 sheet per month in Samsung Display's A3 fab by the end of 2017. The firm expects OLED to contribute 14 percent of Samsung Electronics' profit in 2018.
The firm remains positive on Samsung, given its expectations that Samsung can execute well enough to recover its smartphone business in the longer term, its competitive lead in NAND flash, favorable DRAM cycle in 2017 and shareholder returns will continue to improve.
<h3>Ratings And Price Targets</h3>
<ul>
<li>Apple: Buy, with $127 Price Target.</li>
<li>Applied Materials: Buy, with $35 Price Target.</li>
<li>LG Display: Buy, with Won39,000 Price Target.</li>
<li>Samsung: Buy, with Won1,850,000 Price Target.</li>
</ul>
Image Credit: By Bin im Garten (Own work (own picture)) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:CeBIT_2011_Samstag_PD_116.JPG">Wikimedia Commons</a>

How Could OLED Screens Shake Up Smartphone Supply Chains?

Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="/stock/aapl#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) is looking to make big changes in the iPhone and manufacturer a smartphone with a crisp LED display.

	According to a <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-10-16/apple-s-push-for-better-screens-to-make-or-break-japan-suppliers">Bloomberg report,</a> Apple is looking towards its suppliers in Japan to supply millions of OLED screens. The report added that Apple is engaged in talks with Sharp to procure OLED screens and Japan Display Inc. is also building its own OLED production facilities.

	LED screens are typically found on high-end devices and pack a sharper punch. They&#39;re also more battery efficient and can even bend, which creates the possibility for new and radical designs.

	Bloomberg suggested that each supplier would face costs as much as $2 billion to earn the rights to supply components for Apple&#39;s next phone - an investment that may be necessary to secure its future as part of Apple&#39;s ecosystem.

	&quot;If they don&#39;t invest in OLED, they will have to get out of the smartphone supplier business altogether,&quot; Bloomberg quoted Takeo Miyamoto, an analyst at MUFJ Morgan Stanley as saying.

	Samsung Electronics is the clear market leader in the OLED space and is also a major competitor to Apple.

	Meanwhile, shares of Tokyo-listed Japan Display rose more than 8 percent during the Asian trading session as the stock was upgraded by SMBC Nikko Securities to Outperform from Neutral.

Report: Apple's Next Phone Will Feature An OLED Screen

It hasn&#39;t been a full month since Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="/stock/aapl#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) started selling its new iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus, yet iPhone 8 speculations and rumors are now making their rounds.

	According to a <a href="http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-09-30/sharp-to-invest-57-4-billion-yen-in-organic-led-production">Bloomberg report,</a> Apple is in talks with Sharp, who may be tasked with displaying organic LED displays for future iPhone devices. Coincident or not, Sharp separately announced on Friday it will invest 57.4 billion yen, or more than half a billion dollars in production facilities for the development of OLED.

	Sharp told Bloomberg its announcement is part of a 200 billion yen investment it has already committed towards OLED technology. However, the company hinted that Friday&#39;s investment will be allocated towards OLED displays for smartphone customers - who were not named.

	<bzrelatedlink>Related Link: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/16/09/8511038/barclays-removes-apple-as-a-top-pick-warns-global-smartp">Barclays Removes Apple As A &#39;Top Pick&#39;; Warns Global Smartphone Growth Recovery Could Be Pushed Out</a></bzrelatedlink>

	Amir Anvarzadeh, head of Japanese equity sales at BGC Partners, told Bloomberg that Apple has &quot;unofficially or as a nod&quot; encouraged Sharp to spearhead an investment in OLED facilities. Apple accounts for around 27 percent of Sharp&#39;s total revenue.

	&quot;Apple&#39;s general strategy is to increase the competition on the supply side, and dilute the risk exposure to one company,&quot; Anvarzadeh also said.

	Sharp&#39;s Tokyo-listed stock gained more than 2 percent after announcing its investment but closed its trading session flat at 135.00 yen. The stock has gained 8 percent since the start of 2016, but is still lower by more than 7 percent over the past year.

iPhone 8 Rumors Already Starting

Cowen analysts led by Timothy Arcuri believe Applied Materials, Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="/stock/amat#NASDAQ">AMAT</a>) is &quot;dreaming&quot; about OLEDs and mid-$2 EPS under a TEL merger scenario. According to the analysts, sustainability is a valid concern, but multiple vectors continue to undermine the thesis &mdash; WFE share gains are playing out as SSG revenues are up over 10 percent so far this year. &quot;Ultimately, the mid $2&#39;s EPS &#39;dream&#39; under at TEL merger scenario is finally back on the table,&quot; Cowen summarized.

	The brokerage retained its Outperforming rating and boosted the price target to $26 from $24 on the stock.
<h3>
	Orders May Moderate</h3>

	Cowen analysts said guidance indicates orders may moderate modestly, and the brokerage does not expect a reset, as OLED vectors remain strong. Since the Street remains skeptical of Applied&#39;s ability to reproduce the ~$2+ EPS &quot;that was dreamable under a TEL merger scenario,&quot; Arcuri calls the upcoming quarter a &quot;watershed Q.&quot;

	<bzrelatedlink>Related Link: <a href="http://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/16/05/8013186/4-reasons-credit-suisse-remains-positive-on-applied-mate">4 Reasons Credit Suisse Remains Positive On Applied Materials</a></bzrelatedlink>

	The brokerage elaborated, &quot;Now, we are arguably back to a situation where AMAT could lay out a $2.50 or even $3/sh EPS scenario at its analyst meeting in September given four factors:
<ul>
<li>
		1. &quot;OLED vectors (AAPL + TV ramp + SAM expansion)</li>
<li>
		2. &quot;China semis (should add ~$2&ndash;3 billion/year to WFE and add ballast)</li>
<li>
		3. &quot;Foundry mix shift (10/7nm is a lot more exciting/economically attractive than 20/16nm); and</li>
<li>
		4. &quot;Samsung capex trajectory (we think semis capex is down &gt;50 percent this year, likely to snap back in &#39;17).&quot;</li>
</ul>

	Cowen added, &quot;Most importantly, with SSG revenue likely up ~12&ndash;13 percent Y/Y in C2016 against a flat to up WFE environment, the #&#39;s are clearly supporting the share gain/technology leadership mission set forth by mgmt post the TEL deal (we would NOT conclude LRCX is losing share, rather we see TEL as a share loser and we also note ASML litho sales ex EUV are also down a bit Y/Y too (albeit likely to snap back w/EUV). On the back of higher ests (C2016 to $1.89, C2017 to $2.03), we raise the target from $24 to $26 which is still only ~13x (discount to semis median) applied to average of C2016/2017.&quot;
<h3>
	Investment Basis</h3>

	The analysts explained their basis for rating Applied Materials shares by pointing out three key factors. The first is that Applied is a &quot;transistor performance&quot; company, more so than its peers (&quot;and thus in a sweet spot to capture more of the spending mix as customers adopt new transistor architectures in an effort to ward off a slowdown in Moore&#39;s Law&quot;).

	Secondly, the brokerage said, &quot;The disproportionate leverage to where spending will mix should drive a reversal in the 15-yr trend of WFE share loss.&quot;

	And thirdly, &quot;New management is reinvigorating the innovation pipeline and focusing on R&amp;D and spending on markets where it could bring differentiation.&quot;

Applied Materials Is Dreaming About OLEDs; Cowen Raises Target To $26

HSBC said SAMSUNG ELECTRONIC KRW5000 (OTC: <a class="ticker" href="/stock/ssnlf#OTC">SSNLF</a>), SFA Engineering and Duksan Neolux would be key beneficiaries if Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="/stock/aapl#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) decides to adopt OLED displays for its iPhones.
According to a <a href="http://www.macrumors.com/2016/04/14/apple-samsung-oled-panels-2017/">report from Korea Herald</a>, via MacRumors, Samsung will begin supplying Apple with OLED display panels starting in 2017 under $2.59 billion deal. The report said Samsung will provide Apple with 100 million units of 5.5-inch OLED panels on an annual basis.
"From the above report, potential for Apple's OLED adoption appears to be increasing from the new phone in 2H17, and Samsung would likely be the major supplier based on capacity readiness," analyst Ricky Seo wrote in a note to clients.
<bzrelatedlink>Related Link: <a href="http://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/16/04/7852769/citi-remains-cautious-on-semis-ahead-of-q1-earnings">Citi Remains Cautious On Semis Ahead Of Q1 Earnings</a></bzrelatedlink>
The potential adoption of OLED benefits Apple, which has been struggling to make product differentiation versus Chinese and Korean rivals. The OLED adoption offers Apple the much-needed flexibility in design and form factor.
"Flexible OLED will be an advantage as it could enable zero bezel or a foldable/rollable design. We expect OLED penetration in smartphone to accelerate to 32 percent/41 percent in 2017e/2018e from 26 percent/31 percent respectively, factoring in Apple upside," Seo noted.
Seo expects Apple's 100 million units of OLED smartphone in 2017 would require additional 50K panel per month capacity in 6G LTPS, leading to stronger orders flow to equipment makers during 2H16&ndash;1H17. The analyst now sees net flexible OLED capacity increase to 108k (from 63k) panel per month capacity in 2017.
Seo reiterated his Buy ratings on OLED equipment and material suppliers SFA and Duksan as they are the near-term beneficiaries of his bullish capacity outlook. Seo is also positive on Samsung as a leading OLED smartphone panel maker.
Shares of Apple closed Monday's trading 2.16 percent lower at $107.48, but were slightly up in Tuesday's pre-market session.

If Apple Adopts OLED It Could Benefit These Stocks, Says HSBC

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