Apple Plans OLED Screens for Future MacBooks and iPads, Report Suggests
Apple is reportedly gearing up to introduce its first MacBook Pro model featuring an OLED screen, according to a market report. The Cupertino-based tech giant is expected to make the transition from its current Mini-LED displays to OLED panels over the next few years, marking a significant upgrade for its MacBook lineup. The MacBook Air, Apple’s lightweight laptop, is also rumored to follow suit with an OLED screen a year after the Pro model launch.
OLED Roadmap for MacBooks and iPads
A timeline of Apple’s future product launches, sourced from market research firm Omdia and shared by tipster Jukanlosreve (@Jukanlosreve), sheds light on the company’s OLED strategy extending into the next decade.
MacBook Pro with OLED (2026)
The next-generation MacBook Pro, set to debut in 2026, will reportedly feature OLED panels in 14.3-inch and 16.3-inch sizes. The new model will utilize a hybrid OLED screen—a blend of flexible and rigid OLED technologies—and notably, it will not have a display notch, unlike its current mini-LED counterparts. However, there is no indication whether the MacBook Pro will incorporate the Dynamic Island feature seen in Apple’s iPhone 15 models.
MacBook Air with OLED (2027)
A year later, in 2027, Apple is expected to equip the MacBook Air with a hybrid OLED panel in 13.8-inch and 15.5-inch sizes. Unlike the Pro models, the MacBook Air is rumored to retain its display notch.
iPad Lineup OLED Upgrades
- iPad Pro: Apple introduced OLED technology to its tablet lineup in 2024 with the iPad Pro. The 2026 iteration of the iPad Air is expected to feature an 8.4-inch Hybrid OLED screen with a 60Hz refresh rate.
- Standard iPad: In 2027, Apple’s entry-level iPad models could receive OLED upgrades with screen sizes of 11 inches and 13 inches, also with a 60Hz refresh rate.
- Upgraded iPad Pro (2028): The 2028 version of the iPad Pro may see further enhancements with improved OLED displays in 11-inch and 13-inch variants.
What Does This Mean for Apple Devices?
OLED screens offer several advantages over Mini-LED panels, including higher contrast ratios, deeper blacks, and lower power consumption. The rumored transition aligns with Apple’s long-term goal of refining its product displays for better performance and user experience.
The move to OLED for MacBooks and iPads also positions Apple to compete more aggressively in the premium laptop and tablet markets, where OLED screens are becoming a standard feature.
Foldable Device in the Works?
Beyond its OLED plans, Apple is reportedly developing a foldable device, although details remain scarce. This rumored foldable product is said to align with Apple’s push into cutting-edge form factors and new display technologies.
Apple’s Current Lineup and Pricing
The reported OLED roadmap follows recent upgrades to Apple’s hardware lineup. For instance, the iPad Pro (2024) now features a Tandem OLED panel, and the MacBook Pro (2024) comes with Apple’s M4 chip.
Here’s a quick look at the specs and prices of some of Apple’s latest products:
- iPad Pro 11-inch (2024): Powered by the Apple M4 processor, this model features an 11-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2420×1668 pixels, 8GB RAM, and 256GB storage.
- MacBook Pro 14-inch (2024): Equipped with the Apple M4 processor, this laptop features a 14.2-inch display (1964×3024 pixels), 16GB RAM, and 512GB SSD.
Prices for Apple’s current lineup vary significantly, with the iPad Pro (2022) available for₹119,900 and the MacBook Pro 14-inch (2023) priced at₹289,900 on e-commerce platforms like Amazon.
The Road Ahead
While Apple has not officially confirmed these plans, the shift to OLED displays represents a major step forward in display technology for its MacBook and iPad lineups. Consumers can expect enhanced visuals, improved efficiency, and more immersive experiences as the company rolls out these upgrades over the coming years.
More details about Apple’s OLED-equipped devices and its rumored foldable product are likely to emerge in the months ahead.
