Apple discontinues development of its in-house MicroLED watch display

It has been long rumored that Apple was working on an in-house MicroLED display. Such displays were expected to be used in the company’s future smartwatches like the Apple Watch X. But that seems to be no longer an option, as a recent report indicates that the Cupertino company has allegedly stopped development.

A report from Bloomberg claims that the company has ended its work on MicroLED screen for smartwatches. It seems like Apple decided to give up on this project at the same time it decided to abandon the self-driving car project. In late February, we learned that Apple discontinued its plans for self-driving cars.

According to the report, the possible reason behind abandoning the projects is the complexity and cost prices. This would be consistent with an analyst’s comment from March 1, 2024, stating that “Apple discontinued the Micro LED Apple Watch projects.” Ming-Chi Kuo Kuo continued, “Apple thinks that Micro LED can’t add substantial value to this product,” in addition to the fact that it is expensive.

As compared to OLED screen, MicroLED displays offer better performance in color and clarity. They can provide deeper contrast and smooth viewing from different angles. MicroLEDs, however, have the advantage in terms of endurance and brightness.

Well, if the company continued its plans, it could have an opportunity to lower its dependence on other suppliers like LG and Samsung. Apple will not be able to let up on these suppliers just yet because it is now abandoning internal development. Let us see how things will turn out in the future.