Digitimes Research said that Taiwan-based LCD makers shipped 309 million small- to medium-size panels in Q3 3016, up 15% on Q2 and 0.8% on last year. 89.2% were based on amorphous panels and 10.8% based on LTPS. The handset application took almost three quarters of the sales, with automotive second at 5.72%, ahead of tablets at 5.62%.
CPT was the biggest supplier in this segment at 35%, with Hannstar at 31.7% and Innolux at 19.7% on a volume basis.
The forecast is for 295 million next quarter, to bring shipments to 1.182 billion for the year.
Analyst Comment
Sources in the region indicate that although supply is currently tight for small and medium panels, one of the reasons is that there is a shortage of AMOLED panels, so LCDs are being bought instead. However, as supply increases for OLEDs, and as Chinese panel makers come on stream with new fabs next year, the shortage could turn into over-supply later in the year. However, much will depend on ramp-up and yield issues. (BR)
