TPK may re-enter Apple’s supply chain, sources familiar with the matter have told the Taiwan-based United Daily News. As it turns out, Apple is looking to add a 3D screen to the next-generation iPhone as a key selling point, so TPK could be the right supplier to deliver such touch panels.
You may recall that TPK dropped out of Apple’s supply chain when the company adopted in-cell touch panels: that was with the launch of the iPhone 5. Since then, Apple has been using the same technology, but is actually exploring the world of 3D. Unfortunately for current touch screen suppliers, the in-cell technology isn’t fully compatible with 3D image formation and is allegedly more energy consuming, prompting Apple to search for other supplier.
As it turns out, TPK is able to supply naked-eye 3D touch panels, alongside Foxconn touch panel manufacturing subsidiary, GIS.
A source speaking with iPhone in Canada revealed that Apple has finalized the list of features of the next-generation iPhone(s). Since every device has a key selling point, 3D could be the one for next year’s models. However, at this point this could be just speculation.
Fact is, since it lost Apple as partner, TPK’s sales have dropped, as iPhone orders accounted for roughly 40% of the company’s revenue.
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I don’t see 3D coming. As much as I like 3D, it’s popularity is burning out fast.
It’s popularity may be falling slightly in North America (I personally blame the unrealistically high prices of tickets and especially 3D disks), but Apple is also catering to the Asian market, where 3D is essentially a MUST.
3D without glasses is still ahead of its time. But TV’s will apparently be available with that capability in the very near future. If Apple really is considering this, then its launch may actually coincide with the introduction of non-glasses 3D for television. A new era for the medium.
I hope you’re right … As I said I do like 3D!
I’m Asian and 3D is definitely NOT relevant AT ALL.
He meant those within the continent of Asia, specifically China. He didn’t mean all Asians throughout the world.
I know, and I’m saying 3D in Asia its not a big deal either.
That’s not how you worded it.
I’m Asian. I have many friends and family in HK and China. I was just there not long ago, so I know 3D is not relevant over there.
Better?
Much.
Cheers
Sorry – I wasn’t very clear. As Fragility clarified, I’m speaking geographically, as referenced by reports stating as such.
I know, and I’m saying 3D in Asia is not a big deal either.
Research it and become enlightened.
No need. I have many friends and family in Asia, and I was just there not long ago. I Know first hand that it’s not a big deal over there. Maybe just a bit more than it is in North America.
“No need”… Then enjoy your ignorance.
I am also from Asia, I agree with Shabi.
Whatever research you think you have read, it is written by westerners in English. It is usually skewed from the truth. Read some research in Chinese or Korean or Japanese and be enlightened. You’re the ignorant one.
Right, because stuff coming out of China isn’t skewed at all. What a moronic argument.
Right. Because what’s written and published has to be correct, regardless of what you saw with your own eyes.
Enjoy your arrogance.
Admit it… You researched it and saw all the articles on the subject and realized that you were incredibly wrong. But instead of admitting that, you instead decided to call qualified news sources, liars.
Just because you have friends and family in Hicksville, China who don’t watch 3D, doesn’t mean they are an accurate representation of the insanely huge growth and demand for 3D cinema over there.
3D would imply a new UI paradigm. I don’t see that coming with next year’s iPhone 6 “S” series but possibly iPhone 7.
3D is crap. I would love to see Apple integrate the iWatch UI into iOS though. Now that would be cool.
That UI is a mess. It’ll work on the small screen of the watch, but it’ll be a nightmare on the phone.
Would be useful to compete against the Nintendo 3ds gaming advantages.
Would be great for 3d movies
Would make interesting interfaces
Would steal away all the hype from the amazon phone
Apple should have made 3d screens a while ago -_-
I don’t believe 3D movies will work on glasses-free screens.
Amazon phone.. is that still a thing ? I think most of them are rotting in Amazon warehouses.
Not going to happen.