Apple will announce the iPhone 15 lineup and Apple Watch Series 9 at its Wonderlust event on September 12 alongside a handful of software updates. The new devices are rumored to incorporate some major changes in terms of design and production techniques. It was previously reported that Apple is making use of 3D printing technology to manufacture the Apple Watch Series 9's chassis and mechanical parts. If the company sees potential in the new production method, the iPhone series could use the same 3D printing production technique in the future.
Apple using 3D printing technology for the Apple Watch Series 9 and the iPhone could be next to use the manufacturing process
According to a new report from Bloomberg, Gurman states that Apple is planning a major switch in its manufacturing process. The analyst coins that the Apple Watch Series 9 will feature a chassis manufactured using 3D printing technology that could house various benefits over the current production method. If the company succeeds in its endeavor, we could potentially see 3D printing technology making its way to the iPhone.
As mentioned earlier, there is a boatload of benefits associated with 3D printing for an iPhone or an Apple Watch. For one, the technique uses less material to manufacture the chassis and other components of the product. Currently, the company uses slabs of metal and carves it to the size of the product. The chassis then goes through a series of steps to reach a point where it is classified as usable. 3D printing would eliminate a few steps and save precious manufacturing time responsible for supply shortages.
Since the production method uses less material, it would also allow costs to be reduced. This could ultimately allow Apple to either increase its profit margins or keep the price steady for a few years. The company is experimenting with the production method by using a technique called "binder jetting". It allows printing the shape through a powdered element. The second process involves providing heat and pressure to the material that allows it to harden. Lastly, the product is refined through milling.
This is not the first time that we have heard details on Apple's attempt to use 3D printing techniques for the forthcoming Apple Watch Series 9. It was previously reported by analyst Ming-Chi Kuo that the company will use the production technique to manufacture some mechanical parts. The Apple Watch Ultra will house 3D-printed components this year, according to Kuo. However, Gurman notes that Apple will use the production technique for the stainless steel chassis of the Apple Watch Series 9 and that titanium will be part of the process next year.
While there are conflicting remarks, it appears that the company is indeed working with 3D printing manufacturing techniques for its devices. While Apple has only started implementing the technology, it will take years before the company brings the iPhone to the mix of devices using 3D printed components.
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