The next-generation Apple Watch Ultra was being tested rigorously with microLED, but the company pulled the plug because the high display cost did not make it viable to proceed with a commercial launch. While this event can be recorded as one of the many setbacks for Apple when it comes to introducing newer technologies, a rumor claims that the Cupertino firm has yet to throw in the towel as far as microLED is concerned, as it is being prepared for the upcoming smart glasses. The rumor also mentions the estimated year when mass production is said to kick off, so let us discuss those details.
Rumor does not clarify if Apple’s smart glasses will enter mass production in 2026 or the microLED panels, but it does mention the company’s high-end smartwatch will feature this panel
The challenges in developing Apple’s smart glasses have likely been exhausting, but the company has been reported to launch its AR spectacles sometime in 2027. Sadly, untold roadblocks could pop up at any time, impeding the progress. According to Jukanlosreve, Apple is planning to use microLED technology for this wearable, with mass production expected in 2026.
However, the tipster did not clarify if the smart glasses or displays will enter mass production in the aforementioned year, but hopefully, in a follow-up post on X, we will receive some confirmation. Even if Apple somehow managed to scale past the expensive process of mass producing microLED panels, AR spectacles are a whole new ball game altogether. Firstly, this device needs to be exceptionally lightweight, meaning that it should be a few grams heavier than your traditional reading glasses.
Apple has not given up on Micro LED technology.
1. They are preparing Micro LED for AR glasses, with mass production expected in 2026.
2. The plan to include Micro LED in the Apple Watch Ultra is also still in place, with a target launch in 2026.
— Jukanlosreve (@Jukanlosreve) October 5, 2024
Secondly, the chipset powering this wearable technology needs to deliver iPhone-level performance while consuming 10 percent of the power, which is impossible to achieve right now. The rumor also mentions that there are plans to include microLED in an upcoming Apple Watch Ultra model, with a launch target of 2026. Jukanlosreve did not say where he received his information regarding the California-based giant’s plans, but it seems overly ambitious.
Then again, Apple is one of those multi-billion-dollar entities that aims for the heavens, and sometimes, that approach produces remarkable products, while on other occasions, the company is forced to scrap development. The status of both the smart glasses and Apple Watch Ultra has yet to be disclosed, so we will wait for future updates.
News Source: Jukanlosreve
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