Apple is reportedly looking into 3D printing aluminum iPhones and Apple Watches

Source: Engadget

Overview

Apple is reportedly exploring ways to 3D‑print aluminum for iPhone and Apple Watch manufacturing, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. The new process could change how the company makes watch casings and iPhone enclosures.

Previous 3D‑Printing Use

• The Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Series 11 were partially built with 3D‑printed titanium that is 100 % recycled.
• Apple recently used its 3D‑printing process to create a titanium USB‑C port for the iPhone Air, marketed as thinner, stronger, and more environmentally friendly.

Potential Benefits

• 3D‑printed aluminum could lead to a cheaper manufacturing process.
• Lower production costs might translate into lower starting prices for iPhones.

Related Apple Manufacturing Updates

• Apple’s newly announced MacBook Neo introduced a manufacturing process that reduces the amount of aluminum used, helping achieve a $599 starting price for the entry‑level laptop.
• Gurman also reported that Apple plans to use a “refreshed color palette” for its upcoming iMac reveal later this year.

This article originally appeared on Engadget.
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