Some iPhone 15, iPhone 16, and potentially iPhone 17 models could face a ban in the United States following a preliminary ruling by the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) that found Chinese display manufacturer BOE guilty of infringing on Samsung Display’s OLED trade secrets. The news, originally reported by Korea’s ETNews, may have significant implications for Apple’s supply chain and U.S. iPhone sales.
📉 The ITC recommends halting BOE OLED imports and sales in the U.S., citing misappropriation of confidential technology.
⚖️ What the ITC Ruling Means
The preliminary decision by the ITC asserts that BOE and seven of its affiliates violated the U.S. Tariff Act by misappropriating Samsung’s OLED manufacturing technology. The commission has recommended two major actions:
- Restricted Exclusion Order: Blocks the import of infringing OLED panels and devices containing them into the U.S.
- Cease and Desist Order: Prohibits sales of current inventory and future shipments within the U.S. market.
While devices already manufactured with BOE OLED panels would not be subject to the import ban, future availability could be severely impacted if the ruling is finalized.
📱 How This Affects iPhone 15, 16, and 17 Models
BOE currently supplies OLED displays for several iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models—namely the base and Plus variants. Many of these devices are expected to remain on sale in the U.S. even after the launch of the iPhone 17 series, potentially creating supply chain disruption for Apple.
If the ruling stands, Apple may be forced to:
- 🛑 Stop importing BOE-supplied iPhones into the U.S.
- 🚚 Divert existing BOE inventory to other international markets.
- 🔁 Reallocate supply contracts to Samsung or LG for compliant U.S. models.
📊 What About the iPhone 17 Series?
At this point, it’s unclear whether BOE will supply OLED displays for the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air. These models are rumored to feature Apple’s ProMotion display technology, which requires more advanced LTPO panels.
BOE has yet to deliver LTPO panels that meet Apple’s stringent performance criteria. However, the company is reportedly planning to supply LTPO displays for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max—but only for the Chinese market due to these performance limitations.
Despite this, BOE is continuing to scale its OLED production aggressively in hopes of becoming a major player in future iPhone supply chains.
📁 Legal Background & Timeline
- October 2023: Samsung Display files a complaint with the ITC alleging BOE misused proprietary OLED technology.
- December 2024: The ITC’s Office of Unfair Import Investigations supports Samsung’s claim.
- April 2025: Samsung escalates the case with a civil lawsuit in Texas federal court.
- November 2025: A final ruling from the ITC is expected.
- +60 Days: After the final decision, the U.S. President will have 60 days to approve or veto the ban.
🏭 What’s Next for Apple’s Display Supply Chain?
If the import ban becomes official, Apple may shift more display orders to Samsung Display and LG Display, both of which already supply OLED panels for Pro-level iPhones. This shift could ensure continuity in U.S. iPhone availability while minimizing legal and regulatory risks.
“Apple has long relied on a multi-supplier strategy to reduce dependency and costs—this case could reshape that balance going forward.”
🔍 Summary: Key Points
- ⚠️ BOE found to have violated U.S. trade laws by infringing on Samsung OLED tech.
- 📵 Possible ban on iPhones using BOE panels in the U.S.
- 📦 Apple may need to reroute inventory and adjust its display supply chain.
- 📆 Final ITC ruling expected in November 2025.
This case could have a profound impact on iPhone availability in the U.S. and underscores the importance of trusted tech supply chains in an increasingly competitive global market.