According to the well-known analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the second-generation Apple Watch Ultra is all set to launch later this year, featuring a different manufacturing approach. According to the analyst, Apple plans to incorporate 3D printing for some of the mechanical parts of its flagship wearable, which is expected to bring several benefits.
He shared the post in a Medium blog and confirmed that the new Apple Watch Ultra will utilize 3D printing for certain titanium components. Kuo noted that although the current 3D-printed parts still require additional processes, the switch should be worthwhile due to two major advantages: improved production time and reduced component costs.
Ming-Chi Kuo Official Statement
“My latest survey indicates that Apple is actively adopting 3D printing technology, and it’s expected that some of the titanium mechanical parts of the 2H23 new Apple Watch Ultra will be made by 3D printing. Although currently the mechanical parts made by 3D printing still have to go through the CNC process for back-end processes, it can still improve the production time and reduce the production cost.”
2H23 New Apple Watch Ultra mechanical parts to adopt 3D printing technology; key suppliers including IPG Photonics, Farsoon and BLT / 2H23新款Apple Watch Ultra機構件生產將採用3D列印技術，IPG Photonics、華曙高科與鉑力特為關鍵供應商https://t.co/PngNIIihC9
— 郭明錤 (Ming-Chi Kuo) (@mingchikuo) July 14, 2023
Apple Watch Ultra 2 Main Features
Kuo also mentioned that IPG Photonics is the exclusive supplier of laser components for the 3D-printed mechanical parts, while Farsoon and BLT are the designated printer suppliers. If the process is streamlined and shipments proceed as planned, Apple may expand the use of 3D printing to other products, reducing production time and costs at scale. This partnership is expected to benefit Apple’s suppliers, and more companies may be added to the list in the future to enhance pricing.
While the blog post didn’t mention anything about the durability of the second-generation Apple Watch Ultra, it’s important to note that aluminium and titanium, the materials being considered for the 3D printed parts, are generally more durable than fused plastic components. Apple likely took this into consideration when selecting materials for the 3D printing process. The specifics of the final product’s internals will be revealed when Apple officially announces the Apple Watch Ultra later this year.