Google has supposedly offered to invest 1 trillion won (RM3.9 billion) to boost LG’s OLED panel production. The deal isn’t exactly to buy the panels just yet, but is instead meant to boost LG’s production capabilities. Possibly as a step towards the next Google designed phone.
The report indicates that Google is looking to secure a wider supply chain for its next Pixel device; possibly one that includes flexible displays. However, there is little information available on what the internet giant has planned for its next homebrewed smartphone.
A massive cash injection could potentially help LG in trying to keep up with the rest of the smartphone market. It’s devices are not nearly as competitive as those coming out of China these days, and the brand has been gradually losing relevance.
On Google’s side, the deal could possibly see more Pixel devices manufactured. Which would result in the phones actually being sold outside of a small selection of countries. Whether investing in LG will actually see Google’s expansion into more markets is unknown; although that could be said about everything concerning the next Pixel (if it is even called that).
[Source: Reuters]
