Apple Eyes 2027 for “iPhone Air” Launch: A Slim Revolution for iPhone’s 20th Anniversary. Apple is reportedly considering the launch of a new “iPhone Air” (Slim model) in 2027 to coincide with the 20th anniversary of the original iPhone. To achieve a record-breaking thin design, the tech giant is exploring the integration of advanced CoE (Color filter on Encap) display technology.
How CoE Technology Enables the “Slim” Design
Industry insiders reveal that Apple is prioritizing thinness through CoE technology. This process significantly reduces panel thickness by:
- Eliminating the Polarizer: Replacing the traditional bulky polarizer in OLED screens with a printed color filter.
- Black PDL Implementation: Utilizing a Black Pixel Define Layer to reduce external light reflection.
- Efficiency Gains: Beyond being thinner, CoE panels offer higher light transmittance and lower power consumption.
The Timeline: A final decision on whether to greenlight the iPhone Air and the application of CoE technology is expected by the third quarter of 2024.
The Supply Chain Battle: Samsung vs. LG
While Apple has yet to use CoE in its iPhone lineup, it plans to debut the technology in its first foldable device (expected late this year). Meanwhile, Samsung Electronics is moving faster, planning to implement CoE in the Galaxy S26 Ultra early this year—making it the first “bar-type” smartphone from Samsung to feature the tech.
Also: iOS 27 and iPhone Fold: How Apple is Reimagining the Mobile Interface
Both tech giants rely on Samsung Display (which refers to CoE as OCF – On-Cell Film) for these high-end panels.
Massive Infrastructure Investments
To secure Apple’s 2027 orders, display manufacturers are retooling their factories:
- Samsung Display: Is currently negotiating with partners to upgrade its 6th-generation OLED lines to handle increased CoE demand for both foldables and the upcoming iPhone Air.
- LG Display: Having lacked CoE-capable lines previously, LG has committed 1.26 trillion won ($950M+) through 2027. A significant portion is designated for its Paju plant to secure essential CoE processing equipment.
Also: Critical Watch Face Bug Hits One UI 8 Watch: What You Need to Know
Market Volatility and “Slim” Model Challenges
Despite the excitement, the “Slim” strategy remains risky. Industry experts warn that if Apple delays the iPhone Air, these massive investments by LG and Samsung could become “premature” capital expenditures.
Current market trends also show hesitation. Apple has reportedly excluded a Slim model from the upcoming iPhone 18 lineup due to underwhelming sales of the iPhone 17 Slim. Similarly, Samsung has pivoted its Galaxy S26 strategy, sticking to the “Standard-Plus-Ultra” trio and dropping the rumored “Edge/Slim” variant.
