Apple plans to use 3D printing for iPhone and Apple Watch production

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Apple is reportedly planning to utilise three-dimensional printing technology (3D printing) using aluminium materials to enhance the efficiency of production processes for devices such as the iPhone and Apple Watch.

According to Engadget’s report on Sunday (8 March) local time, based on reporting from Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman, the technology could potentially transform the way Apple manufactures several key components, including protective casings or bands for the Apple Watch and the external frames of iPhones.

Additionally, Apple is also applying similar technology to create titanium USB-C ports on the thinner iPhone Air, which is claimed to be thinner, stronger, and more environmentally friendly.

Should the development of 3D aluminium printing be successfully implemented on a broader scale, Apple’s device production processes could become more efficient and help reduce costs. This could ultimately impact future iPhone pricing.

For example, Apple recently introduced a new production process for the MacBook Neo laptop that enables more efficient aluminium usage, allowing the device to be sold at approximately USD 599 (IDR10.1 million).

Beyond production process innovations, Apple is also reportedly preparing to introduce new colour options for its iMac desktop computer line, scheduled to be unveiled at the end of this year.