Apple to launch high-end iPad, MacBook with Mini-LED displays
Apple is working to release a high-end iPad and MacBook with Mini-LED displays sometime between late 2020 and mid-2021, according to reputed analyst Ming-Chi Kuo (via MacRumors). As per Kuo, the tech giant plans to adopt this new advanced display for a couple of reasons including superior quality of the screens, durability, and to lower its dependency on Samsung-sourced OLED panels. Here's more.
Reason for opting for Mini-LEDs over OLEDs?
Apple is moving away from OLED displays because the burn-in problem is a concern despite its good performance. There is also an advanced Micro-LED display technology but it has teething problems as of now. Hence, the company would favor Mini-LEDs because they offer OLED-like picture quality, have no burn-in problems, and even allow for thinner and lighter product design.
Apple is also reducing its dependency on Samsung's OLED screens
Another reason for Apple to opt for Mini-LEDs is that it wants to reduce its dependence on Samsung as its OLED supplier. As for the new iPad and MacBook, LG Display and some other companies will supply the Mini-LED displays.
Here's everything we know about the new iPad, MacBook models
According to Kuo, this new iPad will have a 10-12-inch display, while the MacBook will have a 15-17-inch screen. He added that these devices will use approximately 10,000 LEDs. In comparison, Apple's best display ever, the $4,999-worth Pro Display XDR, uses only 576 LEDs. Each LED will also be significantly smaller (< 200 microns) than those in Pro Display.
When will these new products actually release?
According to the research note published by Kuo, Apple plans to release the iPad between the last quarter of 2020 (Oct-Dec) and the first quarter of 2021 (Jan-March), followed by the MacBook between the first and second quarter of 2021.
