Apple’s upcoming Series 10 Apple Watch is set to incorporate 3D printed metal parts, according to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The adoption of additive manufacturing (AM) technology for the Apple Watch is a significant step forward, expected to commence in the latter half of 2024.
In 2023, there were rumors suggesting Apple’s use of laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) for titanium parts and binder jet aluminum for the case. Ming-Chi Kuo indicated that Chinese LPBF leader Bright Laser Technologies (BLT) was involved in testing 3D printed parts in 2023 as a machine supplier. This move was aimed at enhancing production efficiency for the watch.
This year, BLT is not only a machine supplier but also the manufacturer of the components themselves, setting it apart from its LPBF competitors. BLT’s vertical integration includes powder production and operating China’s largest service bureau, reflecting its capabilities as a service provider for major tech firms.
The use of 3D printing as a bridge production technology in 2023 paved the way for its official mass manufacturing implementation for the Apple Watch. Ming-Chi Kuo stated that BLT’s shipments of 3D-printed components are expected to increase, with the potential for producing Apple Watch cases in the future.
While there is no confirmation yet regarding the use of binder jetting for the Apple Watch, given the potential 3D printing of watch cases by BLT, speculation suggests HP as a likely provider due to its existing relationship with Apple supplier Foxconn.
This development highlights the intricate relationship between U.S. and Chinese supply chains in the tech industry. Despite political tensions, the economic interdependence between the two countries remains strong. Companies looking to ‘decouple’ will need to consider reshoring electronics manufacturing beyond just semiconductor production, as demonstrated by BLT’s significant investment in consumer electronics manufacturing.
