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Apple’s next-generation Watch Ultra with a microLED display has been rumored a few times in the past. Previously, it was reported that the Cupertino-based tech giant may not announce the Watch Ultra 3 this year as per reliable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Now, TheElec reports that Apple’s plans of the microLED Watch Ultra may be further delayed.
Apple Watch Ultra with microLED display delayed further
Several industry analysts in the past revealed that Apple may transition to microLED display technology on the next-generation Watch Ultra in 2024. Then there were reports that the launch timeline has slipped to 2025 and 2026. Now, as per the latest development, the Watch Ultra with microLED tech will reportedly arrive in 2027 at the earliest.
The report from the South Korean outlet paints a hopeless picture stating that a release in 2027 is also unclear. The main reason is attributed to the high production costs and lower yield rates of the microLED display technology. The OLED display on the current Watch Ultra costs $40. Meanwhile, microLED screens could cost Apple around $150 which is a huge jump in the price of the display panel. Hence, supply chain analysts believe that Apple won’t be able to secure microLED tech at a reasonable price.
The hike in display tech cost on the Watch Ultra with microLED would also raise concerns about the retail pricing of the device. It could also result in to Apple potentially positioning them at a higher price point compared to the current models and even the OLED iPhones.
Apple’s interest in microLED technology
Apple has used LCD with conventional backlighting, LCD with miniLED backlighting, and OLED in its devices. The Cupertino-based tech giant now aims to transition to microLED display technology.
Apple’s interest in microLED is driven by several advantages over OLED. These include enhanced display quality on smaller screens, improved brightness, longevity, and power efficiency. Additionally, microLED screens don’t suffer burn-in problems like OLEDs.