In 2017, the large-size thin-film transistor (TFT) liquid crystal display (LCD) market is projected to keep growing, even though end-market demand has slowed down. According to IHS Markit (Nasdaq: INFO), the industry remains resilient, driven by continued innovation and shifting consumer preferences.
The firm estimates that unit shipments for large-size TFT-LCDs will rise by 1% year-on-year to 688 million units in 2017. At the same time, the total shipment area is expected to grow by 6%, reaching 180 million square meters. This growth reflects a broader trend toward larger displays across various applications.
In particular, tablet PCs with screens of 9 inches or larger are set to see the highest annual growth rate. Shipments are expected to jump 10% to 93 million units, thanks to major brands like Apple introducing larger models, such as the 10.5-inch iPad Pro. Peter Su, chief analyst at IHS Markit, explained, “The shift toward bigger screens is a key driver, especially among high-end manufacturers.â€
The second-fastest-growing segment is notebook monitors, which are anticipated to grow by 4% to 175 million units. Chinese panel makers are making aggressive moves in this space, while leading brands are scaling back their panel production.
However, the TV display segment is facing challenges. Demand has slowed, causing a 3% decline in unit shipments to 257 million units. High prices for large panels have pressured TV brands to revise their strategies and reduce purchases. Despite this, the overall display area is still expected to increase, with TV displays accounting for 78% of the total. The area is projected to grow by 5% in 2017, as consumers continue to favor larger screens.
Panel manufacturers are responding by focusing on larger sizes. Leading companies, particularly Korean firms, are shifting production to panels 49 inches and above, while cutting back on smaller, less profitable models. Chinese manufacturers are following suit, ramping up production of TVs with screen sizes of 43 inches or more.
Another factor driving this shift is the upcoming expansion of manufacturing capacity. China's new fabrication lines, including a 10.5-generation facility, are expected to boost supply significantly. To manage potential oversupply, manufacturers are focusing on increasing the use of larger panels.
LG Display is forecasted to maintain its top position in 2017, capturing 21% of the unit shipments. BOE saw a strong performance, rising to 20.7%—an increase of 2 percentage points from the previous year. This highlights the growing influence of Chinese panel makers in the global market.
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