Prolonged chip supply shortage may disrupt Samsung Elec TV output, CE chief

[Photo by Samsung Electronics Co.]

The worsening global shortage of chips could spill over to disrupt production of TVs for the world’s top TV maker Samsung Electronics, according to its executive.

Han Jong-hee, head of visual display business at Samsung Electronics, told reporters that “the industry in general is facing a severe supply shortage” and that if this continues, it “may not be able to produce TVs.”

“We are doing all we can to prevent problems,” he said.

Samsung Electronics has held meetings with Taiwanese chip manufacturers for reciprocal conclusion for this year and next year, Han said, adding the company is secure for this year.

According to foreign media sources, Han recently visited Taiwan for meetings with local chipmakers MediaTek and Novatek that produce chip components like driver integrated circuits for Samsung Electronics TVs.

Han, meanwhile, showed confidence in its next-generation Micro LED TV released last month.

He noted that the 146-inch Micro LED mass production line for commercial-use display is in full operation and that it will have to expand production line upon releases of 110-inch and 70 to 80-inch TVs this year.

[Photo by Samsung Electronics Co.]

Micro LED TV uses micrometer-sized LED lights to eliminate backlight and color. Samsung Electronics makes the TV at its Vietnam facility and receives LED chips from Chinese LED behemoth Sanan Optoelectronics.

Samsung Electronics may also begin mass production of QLED TV as a next-generation premium TV as early as next year, although details on the launch schedule have not been confirmed.

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