Samsung’s Display Dilemma: Breaking Tradition to Cut Costs

Samsung usually employs its own displays in its smartphones, but next year the company may break this tradition to reduce costs. According to the Korean resource The Elec, Samsung is negotiating with the Chinese company CSOT (a subsidiary of TCL) to supply OLED panels for the upcoming Galaxy A57. However, we are not talking about advanced screens with thin bezels. Part of the orders will still be given to Samsung Display’s ‘native’ division.

Preliminary data suggests that this same type of screen will likely be used in the Galaxy S26 FE sub-flagship, which is expected to be released at the end of 2026.

The use of OLED panels with a ‘chin’ is explained by their lower cost. However, this puts Samsung at a disadvantage compared to Chinese competitors. Brands from China have long been installing advanced OLED matrices with thin bezels even in smartphones priced from $250, whereas Samsung uses cheaper panels even in models for $650 (as in the Galaxy S25 FE).

However, the situation may change by 2027. It is reported that Samsung’s mobile division MX has demanded Samsung Display to lower the prices on advanced OLED panels with thin bezels. If this occurs, the Galaxy A58 and Galaxy S27 FE models might finally gain a modern bezel-less design without a price increase.

In recent industry developments, OLED technology has seen incremental improvements, focusing on enhancing energy efficiency and durability, allowing for longer user engagement. Innovations include incorporating greener materials and increasing refresh rates, which could influence Samsung’s future product offerings. According to market analysts, the strategic alliances with Chinese manufacturers could position Samsung better against cost-effective brands in emerging markets.