[Update] Construction Underway for Samsung Display’s Micro LED Smartwatch Pilot Production Line

Samsung Display Initiates Micro LED Smartwatch Production Facility

According to a recent report by South Korean media outlet ETNews, Samsung Display Company (SDC) is establishing a pilot production facility tailored for Micro LED displays designated for smartwatches.

This initiative is set to take place on a 5.5-generation Quarter Cut production line located at the company’s A2 campus in Asan, Chungcheongnam-do.

Insider sources indicate that the Micro LED production apparatus encompasses transfer, bonding, inspection, and repair systems.

Since late last year, SDC has been assessing potential equipment suppliers, with installations anticipated by the end of this year. Following the pilot facility’s completion, the firm is contemplating an investment in mass production in the latter half of 2024.

Reports suggest that SDC embarked on its Micro LED smartwatch development phase in 2023. Market analysts speculate that the company seeks to expedite commercialization by capitalizing on technological advancements gained from previous research and development initiatives, while also validating processes within its own production environment.

As indicated by TrendForce, SDC unveiled a 2.1-inch Micro LED smartwatch prototype during CES 2025 and Display Week 2026, boasting a resolution of 418 × 540 pixels and an impressive brightness capacity of 4,000 nits. Notably, the Micro LED chips utilized for this prototype were sourced from San’an Optoelectronics.

TrendForce further elaborated that SDC has commenced the establishment of a pilot production line for its Micro LED smartwatch prototype.

To optimize energy consumption, this device is likely to utilize high-voltage Micro LED chips, with suppliers potentially including San’an and PlayNitride.

Upon the completion of R&D, samples of the Micro LED smartwatch are expected to be distributed to brand clients, including Samsung Electronics, along with several European and U.S. brands. However, the final production roadmap will hinge on the specific requirements of these customers.

In a related development, AUO has successfully commercialized Micro LED smartwatch technology, having completed shipments for the Garmin fēnix 8 Pro.

The company is also predicted to adopt high-voltage Micro LED chips to tackle challenges associated with power consumption.

Moreover, TrendForce has noted that Apple has not entirely withdrawn from the Micro LED smartwatch sector, suggesting a potential revival of related initiatives through an updated supply-chain management strategy.

Source link: Trendforce.com.