Neil Hughes
Apple suppliers are said to be gearing up for the upcoming launch of the second-generation Apple Watch, which will allegedly conserve space with new, thinner technology behind its touchscreen OLED display.
In comments apparently made by Apple supplier TPK Holding, it was revealed that the new Apple Watch will adopt "One Glass Solution" technology, according to DigiTimes. Rather than citing its usual unnamed supply chain sources, the Taiwanese publication credited the information to TPK itself.
TPK indicated that production of the new "OGS" touch panels led to unexpected technical issues. As a result, yield rates for the new Apple Watch's touchscreen were lower than anticipated.
Touchscreens typically feature a capacitive stack of materials, including two pieces of glass, which can also be known as a "glass on glass" solution. Glass on glass is used in the OLED touchcsreen on the first-generation Apple Watch.
Little is known about Apple's upcoming wearable update, though one rumor from over a year ago suggested the second-generation model will look exactly the same on the exterior. If that's the case, the new "OGS" touchscreen would allow for more space inside of the device, potentially accommodating a larger battery.
Partners in Apple's supply chain are said to be gearing up for a fall launch for the so-called "Apple Watch 2." The original model became available in April of 2015.
Other rumored features for the next Apple Watch include a better screen for outdoor visibility, as well as the possibility of integrated GPS and LTE cellular data.
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30 Comments
I'm used to the size, but a little slimming couldn't hurt, as long as they don't cut back on the battery. I don't care if they come up with superior battery tech, I don't want to lose any run time by making the battery thinner.
It gets a day and then some, most days. Sometimes it gets a little close, so any increase in battery capacity is always welcome. Making the Watch thinner but keeping run time the same isn't progress.
I'm stuck because the new Suunto OLED touchscreen watches come out next month. As a cyclist, this watch really appeals to me, and the battery life on the Apple Watch sucks ass big time (and if I start Strava from the Watch, which launches heart rate measurement during the ride, then I get about eight turns of the cranks before the Watch dies).