Apple for the first time is said to be developing its own MicroLED display panels for future devices in a secret manufacturing facility in California. According to a report from Bloomberg, the company will use Apple Watch as its first product for the newly developed MicroLED technology.
For now, Apple is planning to make small numbers of the screens for testing purposes. The company is also said to be investing a significant amount in the development of next-generation MicroLED screens. The MicroLED display uses different light-emitting compounds than the current OLED displays that will make the future devices slimmer, brighter and less power-hungry.
Unlike OLED panels, MicroLED display panels are far more challenging to produce, and the company almost canceled the project a year ago. While the technology for that is now in a stage that is achievable, but it might be years before consumers can see the results. While Apple makes its own processors in-house, the company’s move to produce its individual display panels will definitely hurt a range of suppliers including Samsung, LG.
This move of Apple taking control over the MicroLED display will give Apple an edge over Samsung who is the market leader for displays currently. DisplayMate Technologies who rates smartphone displays said: “bringing the design in-house is a ‘golden opportunity’ for Apple. Everyone can buy an OLED or LCD screen,” he says. But Apple could own MicroLED.”
On the flip side, mass producing of the new screens will require new manufacturing equipment, and by the time the technology is ready, something else might have replaced the MicroLED technology making it a costly endeavor for Apple. Since the facility in California is too small for mass-production, Apple will likely outsource the production of its new screen technology to minimize any sorts of risks. Apple spokesperson declined to comment.