According to available information, Apple is working on the second generation of the Apple Watch Ultra, which will replace the first Apple Watch Ultra introduced in September of last year. The release dates for the second generation of Apple Watch Ultra have not yet been announced. One previous report suggested that the next Watch Ultra may be launched in 2026. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has shared new details about the design of the upcoming Apple smartwatch, as well as key component suppliers.
In his post published on Medium, Kuo claims that Apple may use 3D printing technology for the new Apple Watch Ultra. It is reported that the new model will feature 3D printed mechanical parts, including the digital crown, side button, and power button. Currently, these parts are manufactured using CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining.
He also added that, although 3D printing will still require a CNC process, it will allow Apple to save on manufacturing costs and speed up production. The post also mentions that IPG Photonics will act as the supplier of laser components, while Farsoon and BLT will supply 3D printing machines for producing mechanical parts for the 2023 Apple Watch Ultra.
There are constant rumors and speculation regarding the smartwatch, and according to a recent report, the second generation of Apple Watch Ultra may be the first in its segment to feature a microLED display. MicroLEDs, or rather their components, are hundreds of times smaller than regular LEDs, making assembly more time-consuming and requiring greater material resources, which could also affect the manufacturing process. Rumors suggest that Apple plans to use microLED displays in all its devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
On June 5, at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), Apple introduced watchOS 10 — the latest operating system for Apple Watch models. The watchOS update includes a number of new features, such as a redesigned app layout, a new Smart Stack for displaying relevant widgets, new watch faces, and much more.