Apple could use microLED displays in its alleged augmented reality (AR) glasses, as well as the next-generation Apple Watch Ultra, according to a tipster on social media. The Cupertino-based tech giant has long been rumored to be developing microLED displays for use in its devices. While the technology was initially speculated to be used in the Apple Watch Ultra, the move was said to have been canceled and the entire team laid off due to rising production costs.
Apple microLED displays
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), tipster @Jukanlosreve suggested that the use of microLED technology is still in Apple’s plans. It is speculated that the iPhone maker is developing AR glasses that would use these screens, and their mass production could begin in 2026.
Apple has not given up on Micro LED technology.
1. They are preparing Micro LED for AR glasses, and mass production is expected in 2026.
2. The plan to include Micro LEDs in the Apple Watch Ultra is also still in place, with a target launch of 2026.
— Jukanlosreve (@Jukanlosreve) October 5, 2024
Meanwhile, the Apple Watch Ultra is rumored to continue to have microLED displays. According to the tipster, Apple still plans to include this technology in its flagship smartwatch. It is said to be aiming to launch this product in 2026.
In March, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggested that Apple was cutting deals after shutting down its long-running microLED project. In theory, these displays would provide more vivid visuals and be brighter than Apple’s current displays. At the time, it was speculated that Apple would include these displays in a future version of the Apple Watch, before introducing it to its suite of other products.
According to Gurman, the complexity of the technology, along with the rising costs of its development, were some of the reasons for the termination of the microLED project.
Other Apple projects in development
Apple is also said to be developing several new products. This includes a touchscreen HomePod that can run the A18 chipset and gain support for Apple Intelligence features. Meanwhile, an AI-powered desktop device with a robotic arm is also speculated to be in the works.
The company is also said to have plans to launch a cheaper version of the Apple Vision Pro — its mixed reality headset. This device would come with reduced features but at a lower price.
