Apple is reportedly evaluating a new OLED display technology that could improve battery efficiency in future Apple Watch models. The technology, known as high-mobility oxide (HMO), is currently under development by LG Display and is being considered as a successor to the LTPO backplane technology used in today’s Apple Watch and iPhone displays.
According to a report from Korean publication The Elec, LG Display is developing HMO thin-film transistor technology on its sixth-generation OLED production lines. The company is also validating the technology for mass production, which includes testing performance, reliability, manufacturing yield, and display uniformity before it can move into commercial products.
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HMO focuses on improving electron mobility, which determines how efficiently transistors drive OLED panels. Higher mobility allows displays to consume less power while maintaining features such as high refresh rates and always-on functionality.
“Current mass-produced oxide TFTs generally offer electron mobility below 10 cm²/Vs, whereas the industry’s target for next-generation IT OLED oxide TFTs stands at around 30 to 50 cm²/Vs.”
If LG Display reaches those targets, Apple could use the technology to extend battery life without making major changes to the Apple Watch’s design.
Apple Watch Expected to Lead Adoption
Industry sources cited in the report believe the Apple Watch will be the first Apple product to adopt HMO technology.
“LG Display is expected to first supply the technology for smartwatches next year.”
This follows Apple’s long-standing strategy of testing new display technologies on the Apple Watch before expanding them to higher-volume products such as the iPhone.
LG Display is using a sputtering process for HMO development, while Samsung Display is reportedly pursuing a different method based on atomic layer deposition. Both approaches aim to create more efficient OLED backplanes, although they rely on different manufacturing techniques.
For now, commercialization remains uncertain because LG Display still needs to validate critical factors including mobility, process temperature, reliability, uniformity, and production yield. However, if testing proceeds as planned, the Apple Watch could become the first Apple device to showcase the next generation of low-power OLED display technology.
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