These patents include 13 registered patents and one patent pending, most of which relate to transfer process technology, but a few cover Micro LED technology for augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR) and head-up displays.
Presumably, LGD's move is expected to increase profitability by shifting processes with Micro LED technology, with potential markets including smartwatches, large signage and stretchable displays.
It is understood that LGD has built a Micro LED Apple Watch backplane production line in Paju City, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, but it is difficult to ensure profitability by relying on the backplane alone. Although the purchase of Micro LED transfer-related patents does not guarantee the technology, it can be said that the first tasks required for the transfer process can be solved more or less.
According to previous reports, Apple plans to adopt Micro LED panels in 2024 and named the first device to use the technology "Apple Watch Ultra". In the future, Apple may apply Micro LED panel technology to iPhones, iPads, MacBooks and other devices.
Previously, it was reported that the Micro LED version of the Apple Watch will be delayed until the first quarter of 2026. According to the results of TrendForce consulting, the main reason for the delay in the release of this watch may be from the readjustment of the production supply chain, and in the past the industry speculated that Apple would lead the core production process, and it is reported that LGD will take over.
According to TrendForce Consulting, whether Apple chooses to carry out the key projects of mass transfer in the United States or Taiwan, it shows Apple's intention to fully grasp the core process in the early stage of mass production. However, if key projects are carried out in the above two locations, considering that the chips will be produced in Malaysia, the backplane will be produced in South Korea, and the system vendor will be produced in Chinese mainland or Vietnam, resulting in unsmooth logistics scheduling and increased supply chain complexity. Therefore, it has recently been reported that Apple has finalized LGD as the main partner of Micro LED production, which means that the key huge transfer project will be transferred to LGD, and Apple will not only provide its own equipment and technical support, but also invest in the procurement of LGD-related equipment.