The Apple iWatch may have hit some production snags, according to some supply chain sources.
Wearable devices, including the iWatch, have been severely impacted by some production issues if the information obtained by DigiTimes is correct.
According to “upstream supply chain” sources, the Apple iWatch is seeing less than 50 per cent yield rates due to difficulties applying surface treatments to the metal injection molded (MIM) body.
Manufacturers use a MIM process in products with complicated designs as it allows components to feature specialised shapes without losing any of its rigidity.
MIM was originally used to make the components within electronic products, but now is being used to create components on display. This means the surface treatments are necessary for durability enhancements.
The issues could cause the Apple iWatch to be delayed, along with other smartwatches like the Qualcomm Toq, which also use the MIM process.
Along with the Apple iWatch, other companies like LG, ZTE and Archos should also launch smartwatches in the near future, with the latter two confirmed for a CES 2014 launch.
The iWatch is rumoured to come in several sizes, with Apple reportedly launching slightly different designs for male and female wearers.
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