Apple was initially expected to release redesigned iPad Pro models with OLED displays this year. However, the company thought it should launch the new M3 MacBook Pro model and left the iPad Pro launch for another day. Some people speculate that Apple will launch an OLED iPad Pro model using the M3 chip in the first half of next year. Now, a report has shared with us details about when Apple will release OLED iPad Pro and MacBook Pro models.
On the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models, Apple is gradually switching from LCD to mini-LED. Although mini-LED is better than LCD in terms of color reproduction and higher brightness, it is still inferior to OLED panels in every aspect. First, OLED panels consume less power, ultimately giving your MacBook or iPad longer battery life. In addition, OLED panels also feature deeper blacks, higher contrast, and stronger saturation.
According to a report hidden behind a paywall by Omdia, Apple will launch 14.2-inch and 16.2-inch MacBook Pro models with OLED displays in 2027. This display technology will be gradually applied to the 13.6-inch and 15.2-inch models of the MacBook Air series in 2028. Currently, both sizes of MacBook Pro use microLED displays equipped with 120Hz ProMotion technology. The MacBook Air model uses a standard 60Hz refresh rate LCD. We'll have to wait and see whether the company will offer ProMotion technology in future MacBook Air versions.
In addition to MacBook, the roadmap using OLED technology also includes iPad Pro, iPad Air and iPad mini. We have previously reported that Apple plans to upgrade iPad Pro models with OLED displays next year. The roadmap confirms past reports suggesting that the device will feature a hybrid OLED display - the 12.9-inch model will transition from miniLED to OLED display, while the 11-inch model will transition from LCD to OLED. These changes will occur in 2024.
The roadmap also emphasizes that iPad Air and iPad Mini will adopt hybrid OLED technology in 2026. Until 2026, iPad Air and iPad mini will continue to use LCD. Previous rumors suggested that the company was developing a larger 13-inch iPad Air model. However, the device does not appear on Omdia’s roadmap for Apple devices using OLED panels.
The iPad OLED roadmap shows a larger 20.3-inch iPad Pro model that will feature a foldable OLED display. This mysterious model is expected to be launched in 2026. Apple may be developing a foldable version of the iPad Pro, but we haven't heard details about the device yet. Apple is also developing microLED display technology, which will be launched with Apple Watch Ultra. However, it will be several years before this is available on the iPhone and iPad.