An enhanced version of the Apple Studio Display won’t launch until the first part of 2023, according to a very reliable source of insider info. It supposedly will have much in common with Apple’s current version, but with a mini-LED screen in place of the standard LCD.
This is the third time unconfirmed reports have indicated the product release has been pushed back.
Studio Display Pro will boast mini-LCD
The Apple Studio Display from last spring aims at the “prosumer” market. With a 27-inch 5K LCD, a webcam and a scattering of other high-end features, it’s more than average users need but is not capable of rivaling the Apple Pro Display XDR, which starts at $4,999.
The original Studio Display reportedly will be followed by a “pro” version in the same size. The major change will be a mini-LED display that offers higher contrast, blacker blacks, improved brightness and better power efficiency.
Earlier reports indicated that the external monitor would reach customers in autumn 2022. But a new leak indicates the launch has been pushed back to the first quarter of 2023.
The source is Ross Young, CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants. His contacts at companies that provide Apple with display panels have allowed him to accurately predict upcoming products in the past.
According to the analyst, the Studio Display Pro was originally scheduled for summer 2022, then it was moved back to October. And now it’s supposedly scheduled for the first three months of 2023.
Past delays have been caused by production problems in China. It’s not clear if that’s the reason for the most recent change.
mini-LED improves on standard LCDs
If unconfirmed reports are correct, the 27-inch mini-LED screen in the upcoming Apple stand-alone display will use thousands of tiny LEDs to provide a backlight that can illuminate very specific areas. The 2021 MacBook Pro models and the 12.9-inch iPad Pro already utilize mini-LED screens.
The upgraded screen supposedly will support Apple’s ProMotion tech, which will give it a max refresh rate of 120Hz.
No other details on the Studio Display Pro have leaked out yet, though. Presumably, it will come with many of the same features as the current model, like studio-quality microphones, a six-speaker sound system and a 12MP front-facing camera with Center Stage support.
The original version retails for $1,599. The “pro” one surely will cost more.
