According to the latest report by WitsView, a division of TrendForce, global TV panel shipments reached 23.52 million in May, a 9.1% growth over the previous month. Although branded TV makers have purchased fewer panels since 2Q18 in order to adjust their inventory levels, the panel makers still have high utilization rates. In the situation, they planned special deal projects to increase the shipments, which would probably further lower the panel prices.
The stock up for the World Cup has come to an end in 1Q18, earlier than expected. The market grows weak in 2Q18 with no particular demand for TV panels. WitsView, a division of TrendForce, estimates that the major branded TV makers will reduce their panel purchases by 4% quarterly in 2Q18.
The global production capacity of small- and medium-sized AMOLED panels continues to expand, and will reach 13.6 million m2 by 2018, an increase of 51.1% compared with the previous year, says WitsView, a division of TrendForce. As Chinese panel makers continue to release new capacity, the global capacity of small- and medium-sized AMOLED panels may double to 27.3 million m2 in 2021.
Micro LED displays and Mini LED backlight technology have been the focus of spotlight in this year’s exhibitions of consumer electronics and display technology. Major manufacturers including Samsung, Sony, and AUO have showcased related conceptual products. It is also said that Samsung may mass-produce ultra-large Micro LED TVs, driving more manufacturers to invest in Mini LED R&D. According to the latest report of LEDinside, a division of TrendForce, the market value of Micro LED and Mini LED products is estimated at US$1.38 billion by 2022.
Sharp is acquiring Toshiba’s personal computer business, bringing new dynamics to the notebook market. Sharp has shuttered its own PC business previously, but this deal may be associated with the strategic development of Foxconn Technology Group, says WitsView, a division of TrendForce. The expansion to notebook markets is in line with Foxconn Group’s internet and industrial-focused vision, and will allow Foxconn Group to cut into the ecosystem of notebook OEM.
