Apple's much-anticipated transition to custom microLED screens, set to debut in the Apple Watch Ultra, has encountered obstacles. Recent challenges with suppliers like ams-Osram, coupled with economic uncertainties, have led Apple to halt its plans for the microLED Apple Watch Ultra.
Apple Scraps MicroLED Watch Ultra Project
Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo revealed that Apple has called off a substantial microLED order with Austrian company ams-Osram, believed to be for the upcoming Apple Watch Ultra 3.
While there were speculations that ams-Osram would provide microLED displays for the Watch Ultra, the company announced a setback in its microLED strategy, stating that a key project supporting it had been canceled unexpectedly, prompting a reevaluation.
Uncertainty Surrounding MicroLED Technology
Although Apple has axed its microLED Apple Watch project with Osram, Kuo suggests that Apple might have determined that the technology, though promising, does not justify its high production costs.
On the other hand, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman hints that ams-Osram could be just one of Apple's microLED suppliers, raising the possibility that the Apple Watch Ultra's display upgrade could still be in the works.
Apple has shown keen interest in microLED displays due to their potential for brighter and more energy-efficient screens. Earlier rumors indicated a gradual integration of microLED technology across Apple's product range, starting from the Apple Watch and eventually extending to iPads, iPhones, and MacBooks.
Future of MicroLED Apple Watch Ultra
The fate of the microLED Apple Watch Ultra remains uncertain. Whether this setback is temporary or signals a significant strategic shift will likely become clearer over time.
