Apple will debut its first iPad Pro with an OLED display during the second half of 2021, according to a new report.
The screens are expected to be manufactured by Samsung, which is said to be renovating one of its production lines specifically for OLED iPad displays. LG will also be involved in production.
Recent predictions from reliable TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggest that Apple plans to start bringing new mini-LED displays to iPad starting early next year.
Mini-LED screens are expected to be brighter, more colorful, and more efficient than the LCD screens used in iPad today. However, some sources believe these are nothing more than a stepping stone to OLED.
iPad Pro to get OLED screen next year
“Samsung Display was renovating one of its production line at its A4 factory in Asan to produce the OLED screens for the iPad,” reads a new report, citing sources in the Korean supply chain, from The Elec.
Samsung is expected to use a new production method that helps prevent burn-in and extends the life of the OLED panel. It is believed Apple has higher quality requirements for the iPad displays than those for iPhone screens.
LG, which is already using the new manufacturing method in OLED displays built for cars, will contribute to iPad Pro display production next year, the report adds. So, what does this mean for mini-LED?
Mini-LED not dead yet
Well, The Elec suggests mini-LED screens are still coming to iPad — and could actually delay the launch of an iPad Pro with OLED. However, it believes mini-LED is little more than a temporary move.
“Apple is expected to use direct backlight LCD panels for the iPad Pro launching in the first half of 2021,” the report reads, corroborating earlier predictions from Kuo. OLED will then come later.
