In a strategic collaboration poised to elevate the visual experience, LG and Samsung are set to kickstart mass production of OLED displays for Apple’s upcoming iPad Pro models around February 2024, as reported by South Korea’s Chosun Ilbo and spotlighted by OLED-Info.
This move aligns with Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman’s expectations of new 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro offerings, which will not only boast these cutting-edge displays, but also incorporate an M3 chip and an updated aluminum Magic Keyboard.
Given the slated production timeline for the OLED panels, a March release — a month traditionally favored by Apple for new unveilings — appears less probable. Speculation now points towards a potential reveal at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June or possibly later, although plans remain subject to change.
Currently, iPad Pro enthusiasts are acquainted with LCD panels, the larger 12.9-inch variant being further enhanced by mini-LED technology, providing superior brightness and contrast. The switch to OLED is expected to push these boundaries further, offering even greater contrast ratios, deeper blacks, and improved energy efficiency.
The anticipated OLED screens will likely be exceptionally sleek, incorporating a hybrid design blending both flexible and rigid materials, hinting at a possible slimmer profile for the new iPad Pro models.
Long-standing rumors surrounding the iPad Pro’s transition to OLED screens appear to be nearing fruition for the next year’s lineup. However, other models in Apple’s tablet range, including the next iterations of the iPad Air, iPad mini, and the basic iPad, are predicted to maintain their LCD panels.
The last major update to the iPad Pro series came in October 2022, when Apple introduced the M2 chip, enhanced connectivity with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, a novel hover feature for the Apple Pencil (2nd generation), and the capability to handle ProRes video recording, marking significant advancements in the tablet’s performance and creative potential.