New Display Technologies for MacBook Air and MacBook Pro: Supply Chain Insights

The anticipation for OLED technology in Apple's MacBook lineup is tempered by recent insights from the company's supply chain regarding its new display technologies. While OLED screens have been a staple in Windows laptops for several years, Apple appears to be holding out for higher quality standards before making the transition.

Currently, the only Apple device featuring a substantial OLED screen is the iPad Pro M4, available in 11 and 13-inch variants. Reports indicate that Apple may not introduce OLED displays in its MacBook models until after 2026, with some models possibly not seeing this technology until 2028. This delay is attributed to Apple's stringent quality requirements, which have yet to be met by suppliers despite the widespread adoption of OLED in other laptops.

According to the South Korean publication The Elec, Apple aims to release its first MacBook Pro with OLED technology by the end of 2026. The manufacturing is expected to be handled by Samsung Display, which is anticipated to utilize its eighth-generation production process. Apple has reportedly reserved a significant portion of capacity from one of the two production lines equipped for this technology. This arrangement serves as a test: if production proceeds smoothly, Samsung Display could also supply OLED panels for a future MacBook Air model. However, this transition is projected to take longer than anticipated, with the release timeline for the MacBook Air now pushed from 2027 to 2029.

Samsung's production lines are capable of producing up to 10 million panels annually, based on an average size of 14.3 inches. The supplier is also seeking additional clients as it prepares for the production of panels for the MacBook Air. The investment in this eighth-generation facility is substantial, estimated at nearly 3 billion euros. The introduction of OLED technology in the MacBook Pro promises not only enhanced color vibrancy and efficiency but also the potential for slimmer device designs. Previously, Apple had opted for slightly thicker designs for its Apple Silicon MacBook Pro models to accommodate more connectivity options compared to their Intel predecessors. The integration of OLED could allow for a return to sleeker profiles.

As for the MacBook Air, which caters to entry-level users, there may be an interim solution involving the use of Oxide-TFT panels, which are based on traditional LCD technology but offer advantages such as reduced power consumption, improved sharpness, and higher refresh rates starting in 2027. While Samsung Display is a key supplier, the Chinese company BOE is also being considered, despite previous quality issues that have caused complications for Apple. Additionally, BOE faces potential sanctions from the United States due to its dealings with the Chinese government.