China-based panel maker Tianma Optoelectronics is expected to ship 10 million high-end smartphone panels in the fourth quarter of 2016 as it ramps new capacity for high-end LTPS TFT LCD displays throughout the year, according to Digitimes Research.
The company is ramping up capacity at its 6G LTPS TFT LCD fab in Xiamen, China in addition to 6G facilities in Chengdu, China, both of which will unfold in late 2016 and mass produce high-end displays such as LTPS TFT LCD.
Fellow maker BOE meanwhile wil have the largest capacity for handset panels in 2016, reaching 90 million in shipments alone in the third quarter of 2016.
Additionally, China-based Kunshan Govisionox Optoelectronics has a 5.5G line and Truly (Huizhou) Smart Display a 4.5G line that will mass produce AMOLED smartphone panels in the third quarter of 2016.
Digitimes Research also noted that CNY800 (US$125) mid-range smartphones with Full HD panels are becoming more widely used in China, with displays coming from local suppliers, while CNY400 entry-level smartphones with HD displays are also strengthening.
By the end of 2016, Full HD handset panel pricing from China is expected to drop to US$12, down 23.1% on year while HD panel pricing will drop to US$6, down 25.6% on year, and WVGA panels US$2.30, down 17.9% on year, according to Digitimes Research.