Foxconn could build a Sharp LCD manufacturing facility in the U.S.

Last week, we told you that Foxconn was going to start producing OLED displays at the same factory where it does the bulk of its iPhone assemblies. Apple is expected to release one premium model this year that will feature an edge-to-edge OLED display, while the other two rumored models will sport LCD glass. That could change in 2018 when all new iPhone models will be shipped with OLED screens, according to the latest report from Japan's Nikkei news agency. Apple will reportedly get as many as 100 million OLED panels from Samsung this year, which has made things difficult for other smartphone manufacturers who need supply of the material.

Foxconn acquired Sharp in February 2016 for the price of $6.2 billion. With that transaction, Foxconn picked up the glass producing capabilities of Sharp. Now, there is talk that Foxconn will build a glass manufacturing factory in the U.S. which could create thousands of jobs in the states. This comes from a Sharp official who claims that the plans are "on the table." There is no word on whether these LCD panels would be used for mobile devices. By the time this factory is operational (if it does get built), the Apple iPhone will use OLED displays exclusively if the recent rumors are true.

On the other hand, Foxconn has agreed to look into the possibility of moving some iPhone production to the states, as Apple is investigating such a move. A new factory on American soil might end up churning out iPhone units along with LCD screens for televisions. Apple was called out during last year's presidential campaign by President-elect Donald J. Trump for selling Americans foreign made devices. He proposed a 35% import tax on products made in foreign countries, but sold in the U.S.

source: Nikkei via RedmondPie