Earlier this year, Apple reportedly canceled plans for a micro-LED Apple Watch due to production difficulties. The technology is reportedly difficult to produce in large numbers at the moment.
The project primarily involved Korean supplier LG, which was to produce key components, such as the backs of the Apple Watch panels. However, the complexity of manufacturing micro-LED displays, which requires advanced technology and a process called LED transfer, led to the project being halted.
An amicable agreement
While Apple has not placed an official order, LG’s initial commitment has led it to invest over $1.5 million in preparations, including moving equipment and setting up a special team. Following the cancellation of the Apple Watch microLED project, which may turn into a time lag, the Korean giant is reportedly seeking compensation from Apple for the expenses incurred. While there does not appear to be a legal obligation for Apple to compensate LG directly, it is likely that the American firm will make a gesture for OLED displays intended for iPhones and iPads, in order to maintain a good relationship with the supplier.
This measure would help mitigate the financial impact on LG while satisfying the supplier and ensuring continued collaboration, it said. The Elec :
LG Display reportedly seeks compensation from Apple for suspending micro-LED Apple Watch development project in first half of this year […]
It is known that the amount invested by LG Display to realize the micro LED backplane process is more than tens of billions of won (over $1.5 million), considering the opportunity cost.
In the second half of 2022, LG Display moved some of its equipment from Gumi (Gyeongsangbuk-do) to Paju (Gyeonggi-do). It was at this time that the development plan for the micro-LED Apple Watch took shape. LG Display set up a task force (TF) in Paju, securing space for the micro-LED motherboard manufacturing process and recruiting labor. Several of LG Display’s equipment partners also prepared to deliver equipment at the same time.
Display technologies at Apple
For the record, Apple has not yet completed its transition to its third display technology, OLED:
- Originally it used an LCD screen with a conventional backlight
- Then it moved to LCD with mini-LED backlight.
- The Apple Watch, iPhone, and latest iPads currently use OLED.
- MacBooks will follow in 2025 or 2026
Next up is micro-LED, but it looks like we’ll have to wait longer than expected. This technology offers even brighter displays with greater color accuracy, longer life, and better energy efficiency, without OLED’s weakness in burning.