Apple Watch Ultra with MicroLED Display Delayed Beyond 2026 Due to Supply Constraints: Report

Apple’s The long-rumored transition to MicroLED display technology for the Apple Watch series may not be happening anytime soon. A new report from a Korean publication suggests that the Apple Watch Ultra with a Micro-LED display will arrive in 2027 as early as 2027. Previous reports pointed to a 2025 release. Supply chain issues are reportedly causing the delay. The Cupertino-based company launched the new Apple Watch Ultra 2 as well. iPhone 15 line-up in September last year.

According to one Reports From The Elec, the Apple Watch with a Micro-LED display has been pushed beyond 2026. The report cites analysts as saying that the 2027 release date is also uncertain. Apple has reportedly not yet been able to finalize the supply chain of components to make the MicroLED display for the Apple Watch. This contradicts past reports pointing to a 2025 release. Trend Force, last year, He gave his opinion The launch of the next Apple Watch Ultra has been pushed to 2026, while DSCC’s Ross Young Said before That 2025 could be the year of micro-LEDs on the Apple Watch.

High microLED manufacturing costs may be the main cause of supply issues. According to the report, the manufacturing cost of a 2-inch microLED display is $150 (about Rs. 12,000), which is almost four times the $38 (about Rs. 3,000) for an OLED panel. Adding MicroLED technology to a $799 wearable could be a challenge for Apple as it affects the company’s revenue from the product.

Currently, Apple uses OLED displays for its wearable devices. MicroLED display technology offers better resolution, longevity, color contrast, and better viewing at an angle than traditional panels. The company is widely speculating to replace the current OLED standard with micro-LED technology in its iPhone, iPad, and Mac units starting in 2024.

Apple unveiled the new Apple Watch Ultra 2 Last year with the iPhone 15 lineup and the Watch Series 9. It is currently available in India for Rs. 89,900 in Alpine Loop, Trail Loop, and Ocean Bend options.

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 has a 49mm case with a Retina display that offers a peak brightness of up to 3,000 nits. It runs on watchOS 10 and has Apple’s custom S9 SiP under the hood. The watch supports diving to a depth of 40 meters.

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