Korean media outlets have reported that both Samsung and LG have begun speaking to sapphire glass manufacturers about using the material in upcoming products.
No
specific products were mentioned, but some of the outlets have
speculated that the companies are investigating sapphire glass for their
upcoming tablets and smartphones.
Apple
has already invested heavily in sapphire glass production. Analysts
have said it is likely to be years before any of its rivals can ramp up
production in order to compete.
Most smartphones
currently use highly tempered glass from American firm Gorilla Glass.
Sapphire glass is more expensive – at least currently – and is only used
in large volumes by Apple and Swiss watch makers.
It has a number of benefits though, as it is tougher, scratch proof and less prone to chips.
Both the iWatch and the iPhone 6
are expected to be produced using sapphire glass. The scarcity of it is
one of the reasons Apple is thought to be returning to a metallic back
for its next smartphone.
All iPhones since the iPhone 4 have used Gorilla Glass on their front and back.
Saturday, May 24, 2014
Samsung and LG considering sapphire glass for future gadgets
2:42 AM
Unknown
