Rumors have been multiplying ever since a 2014 release for the Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) iWatch became likely, and the latest claims the device will have a flexible touchscreen display. Such a display would be curved and able to flex out of line, unlike most current touchscreens, which are planar and would shatter if bent even slightly. Thus far, there is no confirmation of the assertions, which were made by the China Times.
Apple Inc. (AAPL), it is asserted, plans to use the services of a Taiwanese company, TPK Films, to produce a touch-sensitive film to cover the curved, flexible display surface. This film would make use of an exceedingly fine mesh of silver nanowires, which would easily transmit the high quality tactile signals needed for a small touchscreen display such as that which would appear on the iWatch. Simultaneously, this silver nanowire film is extremely transparent. It can be folded, bent, or rolled, making it suitable for a curved, flexible surface.
The iWatch might feature flexible AMOLED engineering, or might use a more conventional display. Reports are also conflicting regarding the cover that will shield the display from damage. Some sources assert that sapphire panels will be used, explaining Apple’s (AAPL) rapid construction of their Mesa, Arizona sapphire manufacturing facility. Alternatively, Gorilla Glass by Corning might be used, as it is on many existing Apple products. The company’s recent announcement that it has perfected three-dimensional manufacturing and therefore make curved Gorilla Glass displays, fits in well with the rumored curvature of the iWatch’s display.
If the iWatch does indeed end up featuring a curving display, this would make it fit more ergonomically on the wrist. The snugger fit would make it less likely to snag while running or working out. Furthermore, it would give it a sleek, ultramodern look in keeping with Apple’s tradition of making its products highly aesthetic as well as functional.
Though this is exciting news, it should be taken with a major grain of salt. The China Times offers no real proof of their claim, and has mixed what amounts to speculative fiction into their reports before. For example, news source claimed that two new versions of the iPhone 5 were on the way, the iPhone 5S and the strangely-named iPhone Math. The 5S proved to be real, while the Math, which was supposed to be released at the same time, has never materialized.
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