The largest segment of the MicroLED display market is expected to be surpassed by wearable devices, according to DSCC forecasts

A thorough forecast report on the MicroLED market was recently released by the Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC), a research firm that specializes in analysis of the display industry. The report projects notable growth and changes in the market by 2028. This paper highlights the potential effects of the MicroLED display industry on a number of different industries while outlining the current trends and challenges in the field.

MicroLED's Increasing Dominance in Wearables

With its superior qualities over traditional LED displays, microLED technology is poised to completely transform the display industry. MicroLED displays, which are well-known for their energy efficiency, promise a longer lifespan and greatly lower the risk of burn-in. Individual pixel light sources allow for higher contrast, quicker response times, and more vibrant colors, setting these displays apart from the competition. Because of this, microLED technology is especially well-suited for gadgets where a high-caliber display is crucial.

The DSCC report makes several important predictions, one of which is that the MicroLED market will grow to $1.46 billion by 2028. The main factor predicted to propel this growth is its integration into wearable technology, such as automobile displays, AR glasses, and smartwatches. Particularly wearables stand to gain from microLED displays' exceptional efficiency and brightness. These devices' reduced pixel counts and smaller display sizes assist in lessening the initial problems with low production yields that have been an issue with larger displays.

The MicroLED market is not without challenges, despite its potential. The slow adoption of AR/VR applications and the possibility of delays in highly anticipated products, such as Apple's MicroLED smartwatch, have caused DSCC to slightly revise its projections. Although the manufacturer is still unknown, the first MicroLED smartwatch—aimed at the high-end market—is anticipated to debut in 2019.

Apple is a major participant in this changing industry. The first Apple Watch (Ultra model) with a microLED screen is anticipated to be released by the company in the fall of 2025, with mass production starting in early 2026. Furthermore, plans exist to convert the micro-OLED technology in Apple's Vision Pro headset to microLED technology. In an effort to replace OLED technology within a year, Samsung also intends to incorporate Micro LED displays into its smartwatches, possibly beginning with the "Galaxy Watch Ultra."

Another piece of good news for Apple comes from DSCC, which states that panel shipments for the iPhone 15 series have increased significantly, growing by 16% and 21%, respectively, over the iPhone 14 and 13 series. Particularly in October, the popularity of the iPhone 15 Pro models has grown, and they now account for 71% of all panel shipments. The average selling price (ASP) of the iPhone 15 series has increased by 5% as a result of the iPhone 15 Pro Max's higher starting price and customers' preference for models with larger storage. Although LG Display and BOE have joined the supply chain, Samsung Display is still a significant supplier, which has increased demand for the series.