The United States is set to impose a ban on iPhones with Chinese displays. In this regard, the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has issued a preliminary ruling that could impact Apple’s operations in its home market. The ruling found that Chinese display maker BOE Technology misappropriated trade secrets from Samsung Display related to OLED panel technology—an infringement that could halt the import and sale of certain iPhone models in the United States.
Two Legal Directives Issued
The ITC has imposed two provisional legal measures:
- Limited Exclusion Order – Bans Apple from importing iPhones equipped with the infringing BOE-made displays into the U.S.
- Cease and Desist Order – Prevents Apple from selling, distributing, or producing iPhones using BOE panels already present in U.S. inventory.
These orders are not yet in effect. A final decision is expected in November, followed by a 60-day presidential review period, during which President Donald Trump could veto the import restrictions—a move that is rare but legally permitted.
Apple’s Supply Chain Under Scrutiny
Apple currently relies on Samsung Display, LG Display, and BOE Technology for OLED panels. BOE predominantly supplies non-ProMotion screens used in standard iPhone models, including a majority share for the upcoming iPhone 16e.
If the ITC ruling is upheld, it would apply only to iPhones using BOE panels intended for the U.S. market. Devices incorporating displays from Samsung or LG, or those sold outside the U.S., would remain unaffected. Apple may need to reallocate production among its suppliers to maintain U.S. market availability.
Impact on China Sales Minimal: US may impose a ban on IPhones with Chinese displays
BOE has been approved as a supplier for the iPhone 17 Pro, a model expected to launch exclusively in China. Since the ITC ruling applies only to U.S. imports, Chinese sales will be unaffected. Additionally, Apple’s upcoming iPhone Fold will use OLED screens sourced from Samsung, insulating that product from the ongoing dispute.
Civil Litigation in Parallel
In addition to the ITC proceedings, Samsung Display has initiated a lawsuit against BOE in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas. The suit seeks compensation for lost profits and punitive damages related to the alleged theft of proprietary OLED technologies.
This legal confrontation adds fresh pressure to Apple’s already complex supply chain and could lead to substantial changes in how the company sources critical display components for its flagship products.
