The US International Trade Commission (ITC) has issued a preliminary ruling that could prevent Apple from selling iPhones with BOE displays. They’ve cited that Apple has violated trade secrets involving Samsung Display’s OLED technology.
The ruling includes a limited exclusion order and a cease and desist order. This stems from Samsung Display’s complaint that Chinese panel maker BOE misappropriated their proprietary OLED technology. If finalized, Apple would be blocked from importing affected iPhones, prohibiting sales of remaining inventory that uses the disputed displays.
While the decision isn’t final, the import ban is expected to take effect following the ITC’s final ruling in November. Historically, such preliminary decisions are rarely overturned. After the final ruling, the US President will have a 60-day window to review and potentially veto the order.
Apple currently sources its OLED displays from multiple suppliers, including Samsung Display, LG Display, and BOE. BOE panels are mostly used in non-ProMotion displays and even the majority of the iPhone 16e models.
According to recent leaks, Apple has also greenlit BOE displays for the iPhone 17 Pro. However, the ITC has no jurisdiction here as it’s only for units sold in China.
Meanwhile, Samsung Display has also filed a separate lawsuit in the US District Court for the Eastern District of Texas. They are seeking compensation for lost profits and punitive damages tied to BOE’s alleged infringement.
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