Apple may be gearing up to revolutionize its production line once again, this time by adopting 3D printing technology for the aluminum casings of its most iconic devices.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the tech giant is actively exploring the use of 3D printing to manufacture aluminum enclosures for both iPhones and Apple Watches. The move is aimed at making the production process more efficient, potentially reducing manufacturing time and material waste.
According to the report, the new method could alter how Apple manufactures watch casings and the metal frames used in its smartphones. If it proves viable, the change would represent a major step in the evolution of the company’s hardware production.
While the exploration of aluminum 3D printing is the latest development, this isn’t Apple’s first foray into additive manufacturing. Apple has already dipped its toes into the technology with its high-end wearables. Both the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and the Apple Watch Series 11 were partially constructed using 3D-printed titanium that is 100 percent recycled.
More recently, Apple refined this process to create the titanium USB-C port for the iPhone Air, a component touted for being thinner, stronger, and more environmentally friendly than traditionally manufactured parts.
Although the current work appears to focus on aluminum, the long-term outcome could be positive for consumers. More efficient production often lowers manufacturing costs, which could eventually help reduce the starting price of upcoming iPhones.
Apple has a recent track record of using innovative manufacturing techniques to keep prices aggressive. Looking at the just-announced MacBook Neo, the company introduced a new production method that saves on the amount of aluminum used. This efficiency helped Apple achieve the $599 starting price for its latest entry-level laptop.
Beyond the assembly line, Apple is also reportedly looking to refresh its aesthetic. Gurman noted that the company is planning to use a “refreshed color palette” for its iMac reveal later this year, similar to the colorful approach taken with the new MacBook Neo.
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