The forthcoming Apple Watch Ultra is anticipated to undergo a significant enhancement with a 10% expansion in display size, transitioning from OLED to microLED technology in 2026, as per insights from Taiwanese research firm TrendForce.
The Rumored Apple Watch Ultra 2026
In its current iteration, the Apple Watch Ultra boasts a 1.93-inch display, but the impending microLED model is poised to introduce a larger 2.12-inch screen. The adoption of microLED comes with a higher price tag, estimated to be two to three times that of the equivalent OLED display found in the current model, with a projected cost of approximately $120. Key suppliers for this advanced technology include Germany’s ams OSRAM and South Korea’s LG Display.
This strategic move aligns with Apple’s broader initiative to integrate microLED displays across its product lineup, aiming to enhance various aspects such as brightness, color reproduction, dynamic range, viewing angles, and overall efficiency. The result is an immersive visual experience where images appear more vividly “painted” onto the display glass.
Beyond the immediate product upgrade, this transition is part of Apple’s larger strategy to reduce dependence on external suppliers, particularly Samsung, and capitalize on the benefits of in-house display engineering, akin to its approach to chip technology.
The timeline for the microLED Apple Watch Ultra, as projected by TrendForce for a 2026 launch, remains consistent with Apple’s overarching plan. However, it contrasts with other sources that lean toward a 2025 release.
Rumors surrounding Apple’s foray into custom microLED display technology have been circulating for nearly a decade, with the company reportedly envisioning a comprehensive shift across its product portfolio. The long-term vision encompasses replacing existing LCD, OLED, and mini-LED panels with microLED technology, scaling up from the Apple Watch to devices like the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and the Vision Pro headset. This ambitious endeavor underscores Apple’s commitment to advancing display technology and achieving greater control over its hardware ecosystem.
