Apple It has begun testing the use of 3D printers in the production of steel cases for the Apple Watch smartwatch. This was reported by Bloomberg citing knowledgeable sources in the industry who want to remain anonymous. 3D printing of enclosures should eliminate the need for manufacturers to cut elements of the desired shape from a large piece of metal, reduce device assembly time and reduce waste.

Stainless steel smartwatch cases, which currently make up about 10% of the total number of devices in the line, are produced using forging: in this way, the size of a piece of metal approaches the dimensions of the future product. Then, using a CNC machine, the body is brought to its final shape by drilling holes in the desired places.

The new method will make it possible to “print” a workpiece for the casing from a powdery substance using sintering. In appearance and touch, this material is similar to ordinary steel, after which the workpiece is “polished” in the same way on a CNC machine.

source said Apple has been testing a new technological process for several months in the production of steel cases for a new smartwatch Apple Watch Series 9It will be presented on September 12. However, it is not yet clear whether the models included in the first deliveries will have new “printed” cases. According to the source next year Apple plans to use a new technical process in the production of titanium cases for the ultra-protected Apple Watch Ultra.