Rumour: MicroLED Displays in Apple AR Glasses and 2026’s Apple Watch Ultra

Highlights

• Apple still plans to introduce microLED displays.
• The company might use microLED displays in a new Apple Watch Ultra model and possibly AR glasses.
• The release of both products is expected in 2026.

Earlier this year it was widely reported that Apple cancelled a major microLED order meant for the Apple Watch Ultra 3 with Austrian firm ams-Osram. It was also reported that production issues made Apple extend the time frame for using microLEDs to 2027.

While Osram did not specifically confirm that Apple was the client that backed out from a major order, it did make things obvious in a press statement. Osram’s statement said, “a cornerstone project underpinning its microLED strategy got unexpectedly cancelled, triggering the company to re-assess its microLED strategy” in a dedicated press release.

Moreover, even though the order was made from Osram, it seemed LG was also involved and the Korean company wasn’t in the mood to let that go. It was reported a couple of months ago that LG is also seeking compensation from Apple for cancelling the order for microLED panels.

With all that development, it wouldn’t be wrong on your part to think that Apple’s plan for using microLED displays in its products is over for the time being.

However, when it comes to Apple, speculations and rumours hardly leave the sight.

It appears Apple hasn’t abandoned the technology entirely yet.

According to a new rumour shared by a tipster on X (previously Twitter), Apple is still planning to introduce microLED displays in future devices including a new Apple Watch Ultra model expected to launch in 2026.

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

This rumoured time frame doesn’t align with previous claims that Apple extended the time frame for using micro-LEDs to 2027. The new rumour pulls the time frame by one year.

The X tipster also hints that Apple will expand the use of microLED displays beyond the Apple Watch. The Cupertino giant is reportedly gearing up for AR glasses featuring microLED panels in 2026 as well.

If these rumours prove true, 2026 could be an exciting year for Apple’s use of microLED technology in not one but two products – the Apple Watch Ultra and the much-anticipated Apple AR Glasses.

Meanwhile, it is still unclear where the Apple-LG situation stands.

Certain reports believe LG could either continue seeking compensation from Apple for the cancelled order or can even attempt to secure a new contract in the future.

Charles Martin for AppleInsider:‎

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported in March of 2024 that Apple had abandoned the idea of using a microLED display for a third series of Apple Watch Ultra, due to cost.

One of the suppliers who Apple arranged for microLED production, LG Display, asked for compensation after the project was shelved.

MicroLED technology is similar to regular LEDs, but at the micron level. The advantage of microLED is that it could offer OLED-like contrast and brightness, but without requiring a backlight panel.

The new claim stems from a recent account on X.com under the name “Jukanlosreve,” who appears to be the same person who formerly posted leaks under the names “Revegnus” and “Tech_reve.”

Under the previous names, they have said that a second-generation Apple Vision Pro might launch in 2026 at half its current price, which is within the realm of plausible.

FAQs

Q1. Why did Apple cancel its major microLED order with Austrian firm ams-Osram?

Answer. It was widely reported that Apple cancelled a major microLED order meant for the Apple Watch Ultra 3 with Austrian firm ams-Osram due to production issues, extending the time frame for using microLEDs to 2027.

Q2. What is the rumoured new timeline for Apple to introduce microLED displays?

Answer. According to a new rumour shared by a tipster on X (previously Twitter), Apple is still planning to introduce microLED displays in future devices, including a new Apple Watch Ultra model expected to launch in 2026.

Q3. What other product might feature microLED displays in 2026?

Answer. The X tipster also hints that Apple will expand the use of microLED displays beyond the Apple Watch. The Cupertino giant is reportedly gearing up for AR glasses featuring microLED panels in 2026 as well.

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