LG Display Gears Up for OLED Production for Future iPad Pro Models. In a significant development for Apple’s iPad Pro lineup, LG Display is poised to initiate the production of OLED panels for the next-generation iPad Pro, as reported by the Korea Herald. This move marks a pivotal shift in Apple’s display technology for its premium tablet range.
Scheduled to begin in February 2024, the production will take place at LG Display’s facility in Paju, Gyeonggi Province, China. This strategic step forward indicates that consumers could see the first OLED-equipped iPad Pros in the market by fall of the same year.
The transition to OLED represents a substantial upgrade in display quality and cost. Sources suggest that these OLED panels could be three times more expensive than the current iPhone displays, potentially leading to a higher price point for the upcoming iPad Pros.
The present models of the iPad Pro, the 11-inch and 12.9-inch, feature an LCD panel and mini-LED backlighting, respectively. The introduction of OLED technology is set to enhance this with benefits such as higher contrast ratios, deeper blacks, and improved power efficiency. Additionally, Apple’s planned use of a hybrid OLED design, which combines both flexible and rigid materials, could result in thinner iPad Pro models.
With an estimated order of around 10 million OLED panels for the 2024 iPad lineup, Apple is looking to diversify its supplier base. LG Display is expected to fulfill around 60% of this demand, with the remainder being supplied by Samsung, reportedly concentrating on the 11-inch variant.
The upcoming iPad Pro models are not just about screen improvements; they are also rumored to feature larger displays, the new M3 chip, and a redesigned Magic Keyboard. This comprehensive upgrade is anticipated to reinforce the iPad Pro’s position as a leader in the high-end tablet market.
The move to OLED for the iPad Pro is more than a technical enhancement; it’s a strategic decision by Apple to align its premium tablets with the latest display technologies, mirroring the shift seen in the smartphone sector. For LG Display, the production of next-gen OLED panels for Apple is expected to be a significant contributor to the company’s financial recovery and growth in the coming year.
