While Apple is still in the process of transitioning from LCD to OLED technology, it plans to eventually advance to microLED displays. Foxconn, a key supplier, has announced that it anticipates starting mass production of this advanced display technology by the end of next year.
Foxconn shared this update while announcing a collaboration with Porotech to utilize microLED technology in upcoming AR headsets.
Apple’s Shift Towards Micro-LED
Apple is yet to finalize its move to its third display tech, OLED:
- Initially, the company employed LCD with standard backlighting.
- It then advanced to LCD with mini-LED backlighting.
- The current Apple Watch, iPhone, and newest iPads utilize OLED.
- MacBooks are expected to adopt OLED technology around 2026.
Looking forward, Apple is eyeing a more advanced display technology referred to as micro-LED. This technology promises brighter displays with improved color accuracy, longevity, and power efficiency, without the burn-in issues associated with OLED.
There were expectations for Apple to kick off this transition with a microLED-equipped Apple Watch, though this initiative was ultimately canceled (or more likely postponed) due to the technology not being sufficiently mature.
Foxconn Gears Up for MicroLED Mass Production
Foxconn, a prominent partner of Apple, has detailed plans to commence mass production of its initial microLED displays by late next year. These compact displays are intended for use in future AR headsets.
Hon Hai Technology Group (“Foxconn”) has revealed a partnership with Porotech to venture into the augmented reality (AR) glasses market.
The partnership aims to leverage Porotech’s innovative gallium nitride (GaN) technology combined with Foxconn’s comprehensive services, from microLED wafer processing to packaging and optical modules. The collaborative goal is to fulfill the demand for micro-display chips and AR glasses production. Collectively, they will devise high-performance, high-brightness, compact, and lightweight AR display solutions to propel global AR and micro-display technology advancements […]
A MicroLED wafer processing production line is set to be established in Taichung, with mass production aiming to commence in Q4 2025.
This timeline suggests that the first products featuring this technology may be ready for launch by Q1 2025.
Foxconn has indicated that the technology will cater to the requirements of “future mainstream global clients,” although no further specific details have been provided.
Photo by Daniel Olah on Unsplash
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