Apple may end its partnership with the company over issues with the iPhone 17 displays cracking and the potential ban from the US International Trade Commission (ITC). Now, the US Defense Department is looking into an investigation of BOE at the request of the US House of Representatives Armed Services Committee. This investigation is part of an amendment to the US defense budget currently under review. According to Reuters, the amendment raises concerns that the Chinese government's subsidies for small display technology could pose a threat to secure supply chains of critical military technology needed by the US military.
The Secretary of Defense has been given until February 01, 2026, to provide information on whether BOE or its partner companies should be classified as Chinese military companies or military-civil contributors. There are growing concerns about the implications of these investigations and a possible ban similar to Huawei's.
Recent reports suggest that BOE is increasing its production capacity, particularly in manufacturing display panels for iPhones. While there has been speculation about BOE's involvement in the upcoming iPhone Fold, it is believed that Samsung Display will be the primary supplier of foldable OLED panels for Apple. Samsung Display, LG Display, and BOE are currently the main suppliers of OLED displays for iPhones, with Samsung holding the largest share. The future of BOE's role in supplying iPhone displays remains uncertain amidst these investigations and uncertainties.
The US Department of Defense has been closely monitoring BOE for some time now, with concerns about the company's ties to the Chinese government and military. The situation is evolving, and further developments are awaited. In the meantime, readers are invited to share their opinions on using an iPhone with a BOE-made display.
