DigiTimes claims that the price of Apple’s upcoming iPad Pro models with OLED displays may increase by as much as $160, which is significantly lower than early reports predicted. Apple's current 11-inch iPad Pro starts at $799, while the 12.9-inch model with a miniLED display starts at $1,099. Previous reports have stated that the next-generation 11-inch OLED iPad Pro may be priced from $1,500, while the 13-inch model may start from $1,800.
One report even claimed that the larger model would cost as much as $2,000, although this may be a reference to the 13-inch model's higher storage capacity.
DigiTimes did not cite the source of the $160 price increase, but if this figure is accurate or approximately correct, then Apple's 11-inch OLED iPad Pro will keep its starting price below $1,000, and the 13-inch version will start at about $1,200 to $1,300.
The increased cost is due to the use of an OLED panel, which Apple has never used on an iPad before. The purchase cost of OLED panels is higher than that of LCD panels, and Apple has special requirements for the screen, such as an ultra-thin design that is stacked in series, so the cost of these OLED panels is higher than other panels on the market.
On the bright side, new OLED technology not only improves the lifespan and efficiency of displays, but also enables higher brightness. Apple is purchasing these OLED panels from Samsung and LG Display, and it is rumored that these two companies are developing this special double-layer tandem OLED panel specifically for Apple.
The new iPad Pro is expected to use Apple's latest M3 chip. The upcoming device is likely to feature a MagSafe charging port, as well as an updated Magic Keyboard that includes a larger trackpad, making the iPad Pro look more like a laptop than current models.
The new iPad Air and iPad Pro models and supporting accessories are expected to be launched around the end of March, which is also the time Apple plans to release iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 17.4.