Sony Mobile Communications and LG Electronics reportedly will follow the steps of Apple, Samsung Electronics and Huawei to develop smartphone-use application processors in-house, according to industry sources.

Since flagship models launched by Apple, Samsung and Huawei built using in-house developed application processors have allowed these vendors to ramp up earnings and market share, Sony Mobile and LG want to follow suit, said the sources.

Taiwan-based IC design service provider Global Unichip reportedly has landed AP development orders from Asia-based handset vendors, indicating the emerging trend, said the sources.

The development of application processors by Sony Mobile and LG in house may also affect sales of current AP vendors including Qualcomm, MediaTek and Spreadtrum Communications in 2016, added the sources.