Table of contents
Today, display analyst Ross Young confirmed that Apple's first microLED Apple Watch will launch in 2025. Young previously suggested the 2025 timeline in January, but new information from Apple supplier Osram confirms the timeline.
The Rumor
Osram said in its 4Q 2022 earnings call that it plans to begin reporting revenues from its microLED technology in 2025, with Young indicating this information pertains to a future microLED Apple Watch. Osram's full statement was
Let me now provide additional information related to our development and industrialization program for our leading small structure-size microLED technology. Based on the latest available information and its assessment, we can add that we currently expect to start reporting relevant revenues from our microLED technology in 2025.
What is microLED?
The microLED technology uses microscopic LEDs that form pixels, offering more accurate color, high contrast ratio for improved HDR and viewing in suboptimal lighting conditions, support for viewing at wider angles, a smaller chance of screen burn-in over time compared to technologies like OLED, fast response times and low latency for higher fps support, and reduced energy usage for improved efficiency. We expect this technology will be introduced first in the high-end Apple Watch Ultra, which has a 1.92-inch display.
Development
Apple is still early in the development of a microLED Apple Watch, so the timelines could shift over the next year. However, this new technology is an exciting development for both AMS and Apple, and the release of the microLED Apple Watch in 2025 will be eagerly anticipated.
The technology has already undergone multiple iterations and is expected to be refined further before its commercial launch. Apple will likely introduce features such as better color accuracy, improved HDR, wider viewing angles, faster response times, and lower power consumption in the microLED Apple Watch Ultra. Several other manufacturers have already begun using microLED technology in their products, and it is expected that Apple will be able to leverage its expertise to create a superior product. In any case, the microLED Apple Watch Ultra is sure to be an impressive device and a milestone for the industry when it is released in 2025.