Rumors have been circulating for over a year about the Apple Watch Ultra receiving an upgraded microLED display. However, production challenges have pushed the expected release timeline to 2027. Recent developments, however, suggest a shift in Apple’s strategy.
Reports indicate that Apple has canceled a significant microLED order with Austrian company ams-Osram, which was believed to be intended for the upcoming Apple Watch Ultra 3. While Osram didn’t explicitly confirm Apple as the client, it did acknowledge the cancellation of a key microLED project, prompting a reassessment of its microLED strategy.
Renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has corroborated these reports, stating that Apple has indeed halted its microLED Apple Watch project with Osram. Kuo further noted that Apple has discontinued all projects involving microLED displays, citing concerns over the technology’s ability to provide substantial value to its products and the high production costs involved.
However, there are conflicting opinions on the matter. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggests that ams-Osram was just one of Apple’s microLED suppliers. Gurman maintains that the upcoming Apple Watch Ultra is still on course to adopt the updated display technology.
Apple has long been rumored to gradually transition to microLED displays across its product lineup, starting with the Apple Watch and eventually extending to the iPad, iPhone, and MacBook. While the cancellation of the microLED order with Osram raises questions about Apple’s plans, it remains to be seen how the company will navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by this advanced display technology.
In conclusion, the rumors surrounding the Apple Watch Ultra’s upgraded microLED display continue to generate interest and speculation. As Apple’s plans evolve, consumers and tech enthusiasts eagerly await further developments and official announcements regarding the future of microLED technology in Apple’s products.
