[News] Multifaceted Innovation in iLED Display Technology: Where Are the Future Opportunities?

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In recent years, with the growing demand for display products, iLED (Inorganic Light-Emitting Diode) technology has gradually become a leading force in the transformation of the display industry. It is rapidly being applied in areas such as televisions, large-scale direct-view displays, in-car displays, and AR/VR, driving continuous advancement in display technology.

What is the current state of development in the diverse iLED display technologies today, and where will future opportunities lie in terms of applications and markets? In a recent presentation, Eric Chiou, Senior Research Vice President at TrendForce, provided an in-depth analysis on this topic.

Mini LED Backlighting Accelerates Penetration in TV and Automotive Display Markets

In the television sector, Mini LED backlighting has seen rapid cost reductions due to innovations in PCB structure adjustments, increased chip voltage, and active drive technology. As a result, Mini LED backlighting has stood out in the consumer TV market and quickly gained a significant market share. Television brands have also expanded their lineup of Mini LED backlight products.

According to TrendForce, by 2028, global shipments of Mini LED TVs are expected to exceed 26 million units, accounting for approximately 13% of the market.

In the automotive display sector, demand for Mini LED backlighting is also growing. Automakers in Europe, South Korea, and other regions recognize the superior HDR and contrast effects that Mini LED backlighting offers, speeding up its adoption in vehicles.

By 2028, TrendForce forecasts that Mini LED backlighting will have a penetration rate of 6% in the automotive sector, with 15 million units shipped, representing a nearly tenfold increase from 2024.

Mini LED Display: Narrow-Pitch Models Unlock Multi-Scenario Applications

Higher system efficiency (around 4%-7%) lays a strong foundation for Mini LED displays in ultra-large-size applications.

In terms of production capacity, COB (Chip on Board) capacity has expanded 2.7 times over the past two years, reaching 57,600 m² per month, ensuring ample production capacity and driving prices down.

Regarding applications, beyond traditional commercial displays, home theaters and virtual production are promising directions for Mini LED display development.

TrendForce expects that the market value of Mini LED narrow-pitch (under P2.5) displays will rise from $4.5 billion today to $6.9 billion by 2028, with an annual compound growth rate of about 10%.

For ultra-narrow-pitch Mini LED displays (under P1.0), the growth is even faster, with the market expanding from $382 million in 2024 to $1.092 billion by 2028, achieving an annual compound growth rate of about 28%.

Glass-Based Micro LED: Driving Innovation in Automotive Applications

From a technical perspective, Micro LED has achieved significant breakthroughs in chip miniaturization, mass transfer, and inspection solutions. Its application is expected to expand from large displays to automotive displays, covering use in car dashboards, instrument panels, AR HUDs, and transparent displays.

Based on these factors, TrendForce forecasts that by 2028, the market value of Micro LED chips will reach $600 million.

LEDoS: The Future Star of Near-Eye Displays

As an early-stage technology, silicon-based Micro LED（LEDoS）still faces challenges in terms of wafer size, micro-optic structures, and full-color capabilities. However, as it matures, LEDoS’s small size and high luminous efficiency will make it ideal for AR headsets.

TrendForce projects that by 2030, LEDoS could capture over 30% of the AR market, potentially becoming the sole mainstream technology in the field.

Quantum Dot Electroluminescence (QDEL): The Ultimate iLED Display Technology

Eric Chiou believes that Quantum Dot Electroluminescence (QDEL) will be the ultimate solution for inorganic LED technology.

QDEL offers significant advantages such as high color saturation, low power consumption, and long lifespan. Leading global display manufacturers like Samsung Display and TCL CSOT have already launched QDEL products utilizing printing technology, showcasing exceptional color saturation and power efficiency, though there are still debates over material selection.

For widespread adoption of QDEL in the display field, the industry must overcome challenges related to environmental sustainability, production costs, and recyclability of materials.

South Korea: Proposed Semiconductor Special Act

According to Business Korea, South Korea proposed a Semiconductor Special Act on November 11, aiming to provide financial support to semiconductor manufacturers through legislation and allow exceptions to the 52-hour workweek under certain circumstances. This proposed law reflects the South Korean government’s strong support and commitment to the semiconductor industry.

The bill specifies a dedicated account for semiconductors to enhance the industry’s competitiveness and stabilize the supply chain. South Korea plans to offer upfront subsidies to semiconductor manufacturers to encourage proactive investments during the decision phase, accelerating industry growth.

Amid international competition, South Korea has been ramping up its semiconductor investments through financial support, industrial park development, and technology innovation. According to Chosun Ilbo, since July this year, South Korea has offered incentives and subsidies to semiconductor companies, launching a ₩26 trillion funding initiative to support the industry. South Korea also plans to establish a new ₩800 billion fund for the semiconductor ecosystem by 2027, with an initial target of ₩300 billion by 2025 to support equity investments in materials, components, equipment, and fabless companies.

(Photo credit: Samsung Display)