The Apple Watch Ultra was one of the most successful pro-grade watches to have ever come out in 2022, thanks in part due to its focus on free-diving and precision dual-frequency GPS. As a result, the next generation of Apple Watch Ultra, slated to release this year, had people excited for the new features, especially with the rumoured MicroLED display. However, recent reports from the South Korean publication The Elec indicate that the upcoming Apple Watch Ultra will not undergo significant changes, and the MicroLED display has been postponed to the first quarter of 2026.
Productions issues behind the delays
The speculations about MicroLEDs first began when reports emerged a few months ago, suggesting that Apple was looking to incorporate it into the next generation of the Apple Watch Ultra. But, industry analyst Ross Young quickly dismissed these claims, asserting that the second quarter of 2025 was a more realistic timeframe for Apple’s mass production of micro-LED displays.
However, according to the new report, the complexity of manufacturing micro-LED panels may be the cause of the 2026 delay. This is because MicroLEDs are still in their early stages and present challenges in terms of production, making it difficult for Apple to expedite the process. Additionally, the exorbitant costs associated with setting up new manufacturing lines for this technology have further complicated the process.
How are MicroLEDs different from other displays?
Although similar in essence to MicroOLEDs, MicroLEDs offer significant advantages over other display types as they are minuscule, with each pixel consisting of an array of micro LEDs, and the fact that they are not organic results in enhanced contrast, energy efficiency, and durability.
Furthermore, in an effort to reduce its reliance on Samsung, Apple has invested over $1 billion in developing this technology. This suggests that the company may implement the same technology in its AR/VR headsets and iPhones once mass production of the panels begins.
2023-07-06 15:06:30