LG Display shifts OLED production to photolithography

LG Display is transitioning its large-scale OLED panel manufacturing from the traditional Fine Metal Mask (FMM) method to a photolithography process. This technical shift, presented at the IMID 2026 exhibition in Busan, aims to overcome physical limitations inherent in metal masks, such as sagging under their own weight, which can cause color alignment defects in large displays.

By using ultraviolet light to structure sub-pixels, the new method allows for greater precision and a significant increase in the effective aperture ratio, which is expected to rise to 55%. This advancement is intended to produce OLED panels that are brighter, more energy-efficient, and possess a longer lifespan.

Economically, the move toward photolithography facilitates better industrial scaling. It enables the production of various panel sizes—from small smartwatches to giant televisions—on a single glass plate without the need for new tooling or significant material waste. This efficiency is critical for reducing manufacturing costs and meeting the rising consumer demand for high-performance, large-format OLED displays.