Apple has resolved its production issues with the Apple Watch Series 7 and it will start mass production of the wearables in mid-to-late September, with a launch later in the month, still on schedule. This, from an investor note from well-connected Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. (Via MacRumors)
The production issue of the Apple Watch 7 is mainly related to the panel side. However, it has been resolved, and mass production of panel modules will begin in mid-September.
The Apple Watch Series 7 will feature a new S7 chip and will be available in new 41mm and 45mm size options, up from 40 and 44mm. It is said to feature updated screen technology and a flat-edged design similar to the iPhone 12. New health sensor features aren’t expected, but the new model is likely to boast improved battery life.
Kuo says the new Apple Watch had to go through more production processes than previous Watches, thanks to the new device’s “dramatic” change in design.
Due to the adoption of many new panel-related production processes for the first time, the Apple Watch 7 panel module encountered reliability issues during the risk-ramp phase before Jabil started mass production, mainly including blinking panel and touch insensitivity. This complicated production issue may be related to LGD, Jabil, or Young Poong.
Earlier this week, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman said the Apple Watch Series 7 would be delayed or be available in limited quantities.
“We expect Jabil to start mass production of Apple Watch 7 panel modules in mid-September,” said Kuo in the note. Based on this new schedule, the analyst says the end product will start mass shipments in late September.
Kuo also mentions that he is optimistic for 2022 Apple Watch shipments, due to the Series 8 offering “new health management features (e.g., temperature measurement, etc.).” Apple is rumored to be considering adding the thermometer function as soon as next year.
The Apple Watch Series 7 is expected to debut alongside the iPhone 13 lineup at Apple’s digital media event on Tuesday, September 14.
