Samsung, known globally for its high-quality smartphones and industry-leading OLED displays, is preparing to release its latest flagship, the Galaxy S25 Ultra. However, new reports indicate the S25 Ultra’s screen may fall short of Apple’s upcoming iPhone 16 Pro. Here’s a closer look at why Samsung made this choice and what it means for consumers.
Why Galaxy S25 Ultra’s Display Choice May Favor iPhone 16 Pro
As reported by ET News, a surprising decision has emerged regarding the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s display. Instead of using Samsung’s newest M14 OLED technology, Samsung may use the slightly older M13 OLED panel for this device. This decision, reported by respected South Korean tech sources, seems to be part of Samsung’s strategy to manage production costs and adapt to a cooling smartphone market. According to Ross Young, CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants, Samsung is aiming to reduce costs and boost profit margins, which led to choosing the M13 panel over the M14 for the S25 Ultra.
Key Differences Between M13 and M14 Displays
The M14 OLED panels offer noticeable improvements over the M13. First, they are up to 30% more energy efficient, meaning they use less power and contribute to longer battery life. Additionally, they provide richer and more natural colors, thanks to advanced red deuterium technology, and can reach brightness levels of up to 3,000 nits—something already seen in Google’s Pixel 9 Pro. However, the Galaxy S25 Ultra may not include these upgrades. Potentially giving the iPhone 16 Pro an edge in display quality.
Strategic Cost-Cutting in a Saturated Market
Samsung’s choice to use the M13 panel aligns with a shift in the industry. Both Samsung and Apple are now updating their OLED panels every two years rather than annually. This approach allows both companies to maximize the value of each new panel generation, especially as smartphone sales growth slows. With many consumers waiting longer between upgrades, a slower pace of OLED refreshes lets Samsung cut costs without compromising too much on quality.
What This Means for Samsung and Apple
By using the M13 panel, Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra may not match the brightness or efficiency of Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro, giving Apple a potential display advantage. However, Samsung’s decision could help them offer the S25 Ultra at a competitive price, appealing to consumers who prioritize cost.
Will Samsung’s choice affect its reputation against Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro? Share your thoughts!
