Report: Apple Explores 3D Printing for Smartwatch Manufacturing

Apple is reportedly testing the use of 3D printers to manufacture the steel chassis for its upcoming smartwatches.

The move marks a shift in the company’s manufacturing process, and the new technique would eliminate the need to cut large slabs of metal into the desired shape, reducing production time and material waste, Bloomberg reported Wednesday (Aug. 30), citing unnamed sources.

If successful, Apple plans to expand the use of 3D printing to more products in the coming years, according to the report.

Apple did not immediately reply to PYMNTS’ request for comment.

The new manufacturing approach has the potential to streamline Apple’s supply chain and revolutionize its manufacturing processes, according to the report. The use of 3D printing would allow for the creation of the device’s general outline at its near-net shape using powdered material, which is then transformed into a steel-like substance through a process called sintering. The final step involves milling the exact design and cutouts, similar to the previous manufacturing process.

Apple and its suppliers have been working on this 3D printing technique for at least three years, with recent testing conducted on steel cases for the upcoming Apple Watch Series 9, the report said. While there is no guarantee that the first consumer shipments of the new steel Apple Watches will be manufactured using this process, the test run indicates Apple’s commitment to exploring innovative manufacturing methods.

One of the advantages of this new manufacturing technique is its positive environmental impact, per the report. By using only the necessary amount of metal to create the device enclosures, Apple can reduce material waste. Additionally, Apple is planning to replace leather with new materials in some of its iPhone cases and accessories, further emphasizing its commitment to sustainability.

While the transition to 3D-printed watch cases has been costly, it is expected to simplify production and potentially lower costs over time, according to the report. Currently, the cost per watch case using the new process is comparable to the previous method.

In another use of 3D printing, it was reported in January that smart lens manufacturer Luxexcel uses its 3D printing platform to precisely embed WaveOptics’ waveguides and light engines for augmented reality (AR) into its smart lenses without sacrificing their ability to correct people’s vision.