A major display upgrade will start with the iPad mini in late 2026
American corporation Apple has outlined a multi-year plan to transition several Mac and iPad devices to OLED display technology. The phased rollout is set to take place between late 2026 and 2029. Currently, OLED panels are already integrated into the iPhone, Apple Watch, and iPad Pro. This was reported by RBC-Ukraine (Ольга Завада) citing DigiTimes, according to the portal PromPolitInform.
Most of the company’s computer and tablet offerings still feature LCD screens, with the exception of the MacBook Pro, which uses mini-LED technology. The planned move to organic light-emitting diodes is expected to deliver enhanced color accuracy, higher contrast, and deeper blacks.
The first device scheduled for the display upgrade is the iPad mini, with the updated model expected in late 2026. Shortly after, in early 2027, OLED screens will arrive on the MacBook Pro, followed by the entry-level iPad later in 2027.
The final stage of the transition is slated for 2028 through 2029. During this timeframe, OLED displays are expected to be incorporated into the iMac desktop line and the MacBook Air laptops.
Key Details for iPad mini and MacBook Pro
The compact iPad mini is expected to adopt a single-layer LTPS OLED panel, which differs from the dual-layer LTPO matrix found in the flagship iPad Pro. As a result, the top-tier iPad Pro will maintain its edge in terms of contrast, viewing angles, and overall brightness.
Powering the new iPad mini will be an A19 Pro or A20 Pro chip, though it remains unconfirmed whether it will support a 120Hz refresh rate. An official announcement for both the iPad mini and the new MacBook Pro could occur as early as October.
The MacBook Pro lineup is set to receive eighth-generation OLED panels that may feature touch sensitivity and 5G connectivity. Initial OLED versions of the Pro notebook could hit the market powered by M5 series processors.
Design Updates for iMac and MacBook Air
The transition to new screen technology across models like the iMac and MacBook Air may come alongside significant redesigns. The iMac desktop has retained its design since 2021, meaning its external look will have remained unchanged for several years prior to its OLED debut.
Meanwhile, the MacBook Air could adopt aesthetic elements inspired by the flagship Pro laptops following its display refresh. Technological enhancements across the iPad Air lineup may also allow for thinner and lighter hardware designs.
Photo: RBC-Ukraine
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