In its next major display update, Apple will add three new devices to its lineup for display upgrade, competing with the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro models, the company introduced its first true mini-LED display with the launch of the 12.9-inch iPad Pro in 2021.
It is reported that Apple previously experimented with a very similar technology with Pro Display XDR. Comparing mini-LED backlighting with traditional LCDs, mini-LED backlighting offers advantages such as higher brightness, better contrast, and deeper blacks.
However, it looks like Apple is planning to transition to OLED technology in the long run, which offers both of the advantages of mini-LEDs, but delivers even better contrast, a wider viewing angle, and no blooming effect.
Display Upgrade: LG, Samsung, and BOE
The Electronic Times reports LG Display is preparing to supply Apple with OLED display panels for upcoming iPad models, with mass production expected to begin as early as 2024. This claim has also been echoed by The Elec, who has said that Samsung is planning to invest in production capabilities for OLED iPads in 2024. As reported by another source, BOE Technology of China is gearing up to supply Apple with OLED displays for future MacBook models, in addition to the upcoming iPad.
Samsung and BOE are believed to have been testing a two-stack tandem OLED technology, which can provide increased brightness as well as a longer life expectancy. Taking this into account, two-stack tandem OLED displays are a better choice for devices such as iPads and MacBooks, which are generally used for a longer period than smartphones. The company is also developing technology aimed at improving the brightness, durability, and longevity of the screens of its upcoming OLED products with larger screens.
A multitude of reports suggests that Apple is planning to release two iPad Pro models in the 11-inch and 12-inch sizes, both with Gen 6 OLED displays, in 2024, followed by the first OLED MacBook from the company in 2025.
LG has explained in a recent post that the company plans to use its Gen 6 OLED production lines for the manufacture of 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPads, which are expected to be announced at least a year before the first OLED MacBooks are launched.
Since the launch of Apple’s first two OLED iPads will happen after the launch of LG’s first OLED MacBook around 2025, LG plans to use a larger substrate such as Gen 8.5 to be able to cut more panels per substrate in less time.
Known Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has predicted that Apple’s first MacBook with an OLED display will not be launched until the company has launched its first 11-inch and 12.9-inch OLED iPad models in 2024.
As far as the future is concerned, the next step after OLED for Apple’s display technology is likely to be foldable, with rumors suggesting that both MacBook and iPad foldable models will be arriving.
Apple Studio Display firmware updates: what’s new and what’s changed
Take a look at the changes and features included in the latest firmware updates for your display.
The latest firmware update for your display is 15.5.
- Improvements to the camera calibration, such as noise reduction, contrast, and framing
- Minor improvements to the stability
- Requires macOS Monterey 12.4 or later to run.
- Update 15.4 for Studio Display Firmware: * Support for Boot Camp on Intel-based Mac machines is now available. A few minor stability improvements are now available
You can check your firmware version here
The firmware version of your Studio Display can be found by choosing Apple menu * > About This Mac, clicking System Report, then clicking Graphics/Displays. You can find the firmware version next to the Display Firmware Version under the Studio Display section.