Apple Actively 'Seeking New' Suppliers for Micro LED Watch Ultra Project, New Supply Chain Report Says

Joseph Henry, Tech Times 04 March 2024, 11:03 am

Recent doubts surrounding the alleged cancellation of the micro-LED Apple Watch Ultra project have been addressed by a new supply-chain report, contradicting earlier claims and suggesting ongoing development efforts by Apple.

Last week, we heard that the Cupertino giant will stop its project for this promising smartwatch model. It turns out that the new report is the opposite of what Ming-Chi Kuo said last time.

Initial Reports of Cancellation

(Photo: Daniel Romer from Unsplash)
Last week, several reports said Apple will likely cancel its project on the micro-LED Watch Ultra. However, a new report refuted this, stating that it's only searching for a new supplier.

Previous reports indicating the cancellation of Apple's micro-LED Apple Watch Ultra project stemmed from statements made by a supplier, AMS Osram. However, these reports were largely speculative, relying on limited information.

Speculation on Project Status

Amidst the uncertainty, speculation arose regarding the potential implications of Osram's reported project cancellation. However, it was noted that Osram's involvement did not necessarily dictate the fate of Apple's micro-LED initiative, which has seen varying projected launch timelines per 9to5Mac.

Validation from Supply-Chain Sources

A subsequent report from TrendForce provided clarity, highlighting that Osram's setback does not signify the demise of Apple's micro-LED endeavor.

While Apple's partnership with Osram may have ended due to perceived delays, the project remains active, with Apple actively exploring alternative suppliers since 2023.

Apple Will Push Micro-LED Display For Watch Ultra

Despite the termination of collaboration with Osram, Apple remains committed to advancing its micro-LED projects. Internal teams dedicated to micro-LED technology are diligently seeking alternative suppliers, underscoring the company's ongoing pursuit of innovation in this domain.

"Industry observers pointed out that Apple remains committed to microLED technology and is expected to explore alternative suppliers. Taiwan's AU Optronics (AUO) and PlayNitride, which have just begun mass production of microLED watch display panels and chips respectively, are among the prospective frontrunners to fulfill Apple's production needs," DigiTimes wrote in its recent report.

Project Continuity and Future Prospects

Contrary to earlier speculation, the latest supply-chain insights suggest that Apple's micro-LED Apple Watch Ultra project remains viable.

While challenges may have arisen with Osram, Apple's proactive approach to exploring alternative avenues reaffirms its commitment to realizing the potential of micro-LED technology. As such, the question surrounding the release timeline of a micro-LED Apple Watch appears to be blank... for now.

If the Apple Car project is out of the iPhone maker's radar at the moment, it's also possible to see if it happens for the Watch Ultra micro-LED edition.

If the recent reports are accurate, Apple is indeed looking for a potential supplier of the displays. Again, this is speculative, so keep your hopes up until we hear a word from the company.