Facing growing challenges from South Korea-based LCD makers, Paul Peng, president of AU Optronics (AUO), has indicated that OLED products will be a new battlefield for the firms to compete. AUO plans to begin production of small-size OLED products in second-quarter 2012.
The future of the panel industry depends on technologies, said Peng. AUO plans to showcase OLED products larger than 32-inch, added Peng. The price of OLED panel applications has been high because the equipment and material costs are very expensive, stated Peng. AUO has been cooperating with Japan-based firms to develop new materials and applications for OLED panels.
In addition, one-glass solutions (OGS) will be the main focus for touch products.
The market has been concerned with the debt issues of panel makers. Peng noted that AUO currently has long-term debt in Taiwan of about NT$45-48 billion (US$1.53-1.63 billion) and some will be due in 2012. However, AUO already prepared for the payment in 2011, and cash and cash equivalents at the end of 2011 amounted to NT$90 billion.
AUO plans to promote green innovations for the next three years. AUO aims to reduce carbon emissions of all plants by 25% in 2015 compared to 2010.
Paul Peng, president of AUO
Photo: Michael Lee, Digitimes, February 2012
Article translated by Jackie Chang
