1. Gloomy Global Economy Affects Smartwatch Sales, Predicted 2023 Shipments at 130 Million

In 2023, the trajectory of the smartwatch industry is shaped by two major forces. On one hand, it’s driven by the shift in demand from the smart wristband market, becoming a gateway for brand manufacturers to create market momentum on a global scale. However, it also grapples with the impact of the sluggish economy, which affects consumers’ disposable income, leading to a reduction in market demand.

It’s estimated that the market will grow to 130 million units by the end of 2023. Brand manufacturers’ share of shipments hasn’t seen significant changes, and they continue to introduce innovative products. Apple leads with over 30%, followed by Samsung at nearly 10%, alongside Huawei, Garmin, Fitbit and others.

2. Manufacturers Opt for More Cautious Strategies, Focusing on Minor Upgrades and Diversified Research

Given the uncertain landscape, major smartwatch manufacturers like Apple, Samsung, and Huawei are expected to embrace a more conservative development approach. While they will keep innovating and introducing new products, their design philosophy leans towards incremental upgrades.

High-end watch models will be introduced with caution, targeting well-defined niche markets. Furthermore, some brands are likely to venture into other smart wearable devices, but many of these new devices face challenges in terms of data analysis, application integration, and market maturity, which means it will take time before they become commercially viable.

3. AI Focus: Major Manufacturers Prioritize AI Integration for Accuracy and Innovation

Without making substantial changes to their existing structure, companies are proactively utilizing AI technology as the cornerstone of their development strategy. This approach yields benefits such as fine-tuning existing sensor data for more precise measurements and the creation of applications that cater to consumer needs.

As AI applications heavily rely on chip performance and battery life, companies like Apple are upgrading their chips. This move aims to elevate past auxiliary functions into mainstream operations through AI. Moreover, this technology may further integrate with their Vision Pro devices’ gesture controls, enhancing the overall user experience.

(Source: TechNews) AUO has been developing Micro LED technology since 2012 and has accumulated profound display expertise and processing capabilities, including resources from PlayNitride and Rohinni. Using its accurate mass-transfer technology, AUO transfers Micro LED chips onto AM-TFT backplanes. AUO also collaborates with Ruida Technology and BenQ Materials to develop Micro LED display driver ICs and packaging surface treatment materials, respectively and uses its image calibration technology to enhance picture quality performance in the display industry.

AUO launched a 1.39-inch commercial smartwatch this year, breaking through technological barriers. The smartwatch has a round design conforming to smartwatch standards, with a high pixel density of up to 326 PPI, maintaining color saturation and high contrast while improving the lifespan of large viewing angles and high-brightness displays. It is energy-efficient and meets the demand for clear information display under bright sunlight, leading the way in mass production.

Upgraded smart cockpit visual effects with Micro LED transparent display

AUO uses Micro LED transparent displays to redefine in-car usage, with high brightness and contrast, along with optical films on printed glass or special structures, to present different textures and integrate with the interior decor. The A-pillar to A-pillar LED immersive display screen achieves a display-on-demand cabin experience without interfering with information reading.

AUO has integrated a 17.3-inch Micro LED transparent display with a 12.3-inch LCD display to create a no-dead-angle naked eye 3D effect. It also includes a DMS recognition system to detect driving behavior and provide safety warnings. This technology can be used in future self-driving car dashboards to create a safer and more comfortable driving experience. Additionally, AUO displayed a 60-inch Micro LED transparent window screen that can be customized for different applications such as car windows, home entrances, smart storefronts, and commercial displays, providing a rich and fascinating visual experience.（Image credit: AUO）