Apple is expected to procure a total of 250-270 million flat panels for the production of iPhone devices in 2018, accord to sources from Taiwan's panel industry.

Apple's purchases of OLED panels in 2018 will reach 110-130 million units, including 70-80 million 5.9-inch units for the current iPhone X and an upgraded version of the same size. The remaining will be 40-50 million 6.5-inch OLED panels for the production of a less expensive model, said the sources.

Apple will also take up a total of 60-70 million 6.1-inch all-screen LTPS panels for another new iPhone model to be released in fall 2018, as well as 60-70 million LTPS panels in 4-, 4.7- and 5.5-inch sizes for the production of iPhone 8 devices, iPhone SE and iPhone 7, indicated the sources.

Samsung Display will continue to serve as the primary supplier of OLED panels to Apple, according to IHS Markit. However, LG Display will strive to become the second supplier in the second half of 2018, aiming to secure orders for the new 6.5-inch OLED model to be launched this fall.

On the other hand, Japan Display, Sharp and LG Display will be the main suppliers of LTPS panels to Apple in 2018, said the sources.