Samsung Galaxy S21 in for a beatdown as Apple lines up iPhone 13 sucker punch

(Image credit: Apple)

published 26 November 2020

The iPhone 13 is in for a big upgrade next year, with rumors that Apple is finally switching from a 60Hz to a 120Hz display, but the biggest surprise is that in spite of the step-up in hardware, it could be even cheaper than the iPhone 12.

We've heard that Apple might be incorporating LTPO panels in certain iPhone 13 models, adding more weight to reports that the upcoming Pro models will allow for variable refresh rate thanks to the new, energy-efficient LTPO OLED displays. But if Apple switches manufacturing partners for its panels, as leaks indicate, the upgraded displays could be significantly cheaper than the ones it's using now.

Established leaker Jon Prosser has delivered some intriguing Apple information on a new episode of Front Page Tech. Chinese display manufacturer BOE has once again failed to surpass Apple’s rigorous quality standards, leaving Samsung and LG Display as the likely choice to produce the iPhone 13 displays, as was the case for the iPhone 12’s OLED panels.

Critically, Prosser notes that BOE was producing LTPO OLED displays as per Apple’s requirements. These displays - utilised in Android devices including the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra 5G - could deliver the 120Hz that Apple fans have been craving.

One downside is that Samsung and LG Display require Apple to pay a more expensive manufacturing fee in comparison to BOE. One of the major criticisms of the iPhone 12 is its high price point; a criticism that seems likely to repeat itself with the iPhone 13 if manufacturing costs cannot be cut elsewhere.

However, Prosser mentioned that BOE can apply for another quality test early next year, theoretically in time for iPhone 13 manufacturing. If the company can meet the stringent requirements set out by Apple, the production costs will drop, allowing the saving to be passed onto consumers, which means cheaper iPhone 13s for everyone!

The necessity for Apple to adopt 120Hz is greater than ever with Samsung likely boasting WQHD 120Hz through an LTPO display for the Galaxy S21.

In the meantime, the iPhone SE is a perfect entry point for those averse to shelling out £1,000 for a smarphone, and you can check out our roundup of Black Friday deals for more bargains below. If you're still set on an iPhone, our best Apple Black Friday deals will be right up your street.

Apple – see the latest Apple offers here
Best Buy – massive savings across every department
Dell.com – save big on notebooks, desktops, monitors and more
eBay.com – big discounts in the eBay Brand Outlet
Home Depot – save on furniture, smart home devices and more
HP – save up to 30% on select products
Lowes – save up to $500 on select appliances
Lenovo – deep discounts on gaming laptops, student laptops and more
Microsoft – Surface and Xbox deals plus Microsoft Store Exclusives
Newegg – get your computer parts for less
Nordstrom – deals on Hunter, UGG, The North Face and more
Target – Target is going big on Black Friday this year
Walmart – save big on tech, home appliances and much more

Source: Front Page Tech

Upgrade to smarter living