Apple is working on a new version of the Apple Watch Ultra with a bigger display in the coming years. It was previously reported that Apple plans to debut its micro-LED display technology with a version of the Apple Watch Ultra in 2025. While the company does have plans to switch its display technology in the near future, we are not aware of the exact release time frame. It is now being reported that the display size of the Apple Watch Ultra is expected to increase by 10 percent in 2026.
Apple Watch Ultra to house a more prominent 2.12-inch micro-LED display, could launch as soon as 2026
Apple announced the second generation Apple Watch Ultra alongside the new iPhone 15 models, featuring a new S9 chip. The new chip brings significant performance gains for the Apple Watch Ultra, which launched with an identical design to its predecessor. The company could also use the same design for another couple of years, and it is relatively newer than the Series 9. However, Apple plans to revamp the Apple Watch Ultra entirely in 2026 with a 10 percent bigger display.
The Apple Watch Ultracurrently features a 1.93-inch display, the same as the original model. According to a new report from the Taiwanese research firm TrendForce, Apple plans to increase the display size to 2.12 inches, which could mean that other design changes are part of the mix. Apple also plans to switch from OLED display technology to its custom micro-LED screens, which are expected to cost around two to three times more than the OLED panels on current models.
This is not the first time we have heard details on Apple's plans to incorporate micro-LED panels for its wearable. Display analyst Ross Young first shared the news in January of 2023. The company's in-house micro-LED display for the Apple Watch Ultra will host many benefits over the OLED panels. Apple Watch Ultra with micro-LED display will allow higher brightness levels, enhanced color reproduction, better viewing angles, and higher saturation levels. Furthermore, the display is also energy efficient, allowing improved battery life on the Apple Watch Ultra.
Regarding quality, it was previously speculated that the micro-LED display on the Apple Watch Ultra would make images pop out as if the content was painted on top of the glass. It was previously predicted that Apple will launch the first Apple Watch Ultra model in 2025 with a micro-LED display. However, TrendForce speculates that the technology will see daylight in 2026. Apple also has plans to bring the micro-LED display technology to additional products following the launch. However, it will take years before micro-LED reaches the iPhone and iPad.
About the author: Ali Salman is a technology reporter for Wccftech mobile section with a specialized focus on Apple and the intellectual property that drives mobile innovation. He has cultivated a unique expertise in analyzing and deconstructing complex technology patents, translating dense legal and technical documents into clear, insightful reports on future products.
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