While Apple has yet to fully transition from LCD to OLED displays, the company is set to advance to microLED technology in the near future. Major supplier Foxconn has indicated that it plans to commence mass production of this advanced display technology by late next year.
This announcement coincides with Foxconn’s partnership with Porotech, aimed at incorporating microLED displays into future augmented reality (AR) headsets.
Apple’s Transition to Micro-LED
Apple has not yet completed its shift to its third display technology, OLED:
- Initially, the company utilized traditional LCD with backlighting
- Subsequently, it transitioned to LCD with mini-LED backlighting
- Currently, devices such as the Apple Watch, iPhone, and latest iPads are equipped with OLED technology
- MacBooks are expected to follow this trend, likely in 2026
Looking ahead, Apple is already exploring micro-LED technology, which promises enhanced brightness, better color accuracy, longer lifespan, and improved energy efficiency without the burn-in issues associated with OLED.
There were plans for a microLED Apple Watch, but they were either postponed or canceled due to the technology not being sufficiently ready.
Foxconn Gears Up for MicroLED Production
Foxconn, a key partner for Apple, has confirmed its expectations to start mass production of microLED screens late next year. These miniature displays are intended for use in future AR headsets.
Hon Hai Technology Group (“Foxconn”) has announced a collaboration with Porotech to venture into the augmented reality (AR) glasses sector.
By leveraging Porotech’s innovative gallium nitride (GaN) technology alongside Foxconn’s comprehensive services, which include microLED wafer processing, packaging, and optical modules, the partnership aims to address the growing demand for micro-display chips and AR glasses. Their collaboration strives to deliver high-performance, high-brightness, compact, and lightweight AR display solutions, thereby advancing the development of global AR and micro-display technologies.
The company plans to set up a MicroLED wafer processing production facility in Taichung, with mass production expected to commence in Q4 2025.
This timeline suggests that the first products featuring this technology may launch in Q1 2025.
Foxconn asserts that the technology will cater to the requirements of “future mainstream global clients,” though further details are not provided.
Photo by Daniel Olah on Unsplash
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