Apple Watch Ultra Set for a Major Upgrade with Larger MicroLED Screen in 2026. Apple is reportedly setting the stage for a significant update to its Apple Watch Ultra line in 2026, with the introduction of a microLED display. This move is anticipated to not only enhance the visual appeal of the watch but also mark a technological leap for the company.
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The Apple Watch Ultra, known for its robust features and premium build, is expected to undergo a notable change in its display technology. The shift from the current OLED screen to a microLED display is projected to increase the screen size by approximately 10%. This would bring the screen size from the current 1.93 inches to an estimated 2.12 inches.
The adoption of microLED technology comes with a higher cost. It’s estimated that the microLED panel could be two to three times more expensive than the existing OLED displays, potentially raising the component cost to around $120. Despite the higher price, the benefits of microLED technology, such as improved brightness, color reproduction, and efficiency, make it a worthwhile investment.
This transition to microLED is part of Apple’s broader strategy to reduce its reliance on external suppliers, particularly Samsung. By designing and developing its own display technologies, similar to its approach with chip technology, Apple aims to have more control over the manufacturing process and the final product quality.
Sources have confirmed that Apple’s plans for the Apple Watch Ultra’s microLED display have been in the pipeline since early 2023. The shift is not just a simple upgrade; it represents a significant enhancement in the way images are rendered, offering a more vivid and dynamic viewing experience.
MicroLED technology is known for its superior dynamic range and viewing angles, which means that the new display will likely offer a more immersive and engaging visual experience. This would be particularly beneficial for Apple Watch Ultra’s outdoor and fitness-focused user base.
The shift to microLED technology has been a long time coming for Apple. The company has reportedly been investing in custom microLED display technology for nearly a decade, indicating a committed effort to revolutionize its display capabilities across various product lines.
While the 2026 timeline for the Apple Watch Ultra’s new display might seem distant, it aligns with Apple’s careful approach to incorporating advanced technologies into its products. The company is known for its meticulous planning and execution, ensuring that new features are thoroughly tested and refined before release.
Looking beyond the Apple Watch Ultra, Apple’s long-term vision involves transitioning all of its products from LCD, OLED, and mini-LED panels to microLED technology. This ambitious plan suggests that future versions of the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and even the Vision Pro could eventually adopt microLED displays.
In conclusion, the upcoming Apple Watch Ultra with a microLED display represents a significant step forward for Apple in terms of display technology. It’s a clear sign of the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation and quality, paving the way for future products that continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in consumer electronics.
