Is the MicroLED Apple Watch Really Cancelled?

Surprise news that Apple likely cancelled its partnership with ams-OSRAM to develop microLED displays for the Apple Watch has left the future of the rumored device in question.

MicroLED technology is viewed as the next evolution in mobile device displays due to its ability to offer superior brightness, color accuracy, and energy efficiency compared to current OLED and LCD technologies, while also providing longer lifespan and improved durability. Additionally, its capability for higher pixel density and faster response times makes it ideal for creating more compact, lightweight devices with enhanced display performance and lower power consumption.

Since the announcement, analysts have weighed in on whether or not the project is really cancelled, or if its just ams-OSRAM that's out.


Bloomberg's Mark Gurman doubts that the entire project is cancelled...

AMS-Osram was one supplier in the Apple Watch Ultra microLED project. There are several others. I doubt it was canceled.

However, TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says ams-OSRAM was the exclusive supplier and the project is indeed cancelled.

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1. My latest survey indicates that Apple has canceled the Micro LED Apple Watch projects because Apple thinks that Micro LED can't add significant value to this product, and the production costs are too high to make it economically viable.


2. Apple has laid off many people from the Micro LED development team. There's currently no visibility on any Micro LED-related projects. It's undoubtedly a major setback for Apple, which hopes to own the next generation of display technology to make its products more competitive.

3. Osram was Apple's exclusive LED chip supplier for Micro LED. The company's cancellation of its Micro LED collaboration with Apple means that Apple has no plans to mass-produce Micro LED devices in the foreseeable future.
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Notably, Samsung announced in October 2023 that it is considering expanding its Micro LED technology to small displays such as signage and smartwatches. Perhaps Apple has decided to make the move to microLED through an established display supplier? Please download the iClarified app or follow iClarified on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and RSS for more developments as they unfold!