OLED iPad Pro, iPad Air Rumors: Release Date, Features And More

Apple no longer plans to release an iPad Air with an OLED display in 2022 and instead will continue using LCD technology for its upcoming model, a reliable Apple leaker has said.

TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who is known as a reliable source for Apple-related rumors, said in a new investor note, seen by 9to5Mac, that the company "canceled" plans to release an OLED iPad Air next year because the performance and cost could not meet its requirements.

Next year's iPad Air model is expected to use TFT-LCD technology, according to Kuo.

The company will also launch an 11-inch iPad Pro with mini-LED sometime in 2022, the analyst claimed.

Back in July, Display Supply Chain Consultants analyst Ross Young, who has proven to be a reliable source for display-related rumors, also claimed that the first iPad with an OLED display would be released in 2023 rather than next year.

Apple used mini-LED technology for its 12.9-inch iPad Pro that was released earlier this year. The same technology is expected to be used in the upcoming 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros.

Earlier this week, Korean website The Elec reported that Apple is planning to release two new iPad Pro models — including one with a 12.9-inch display — with low-power LTPO OLED displays in 2023 or 2024. The new models could feature improved ProMotion with a wider range of refresh rates.

A more recent report from the outlet said that LG Display has begun developing the 12.9-inch OLED iPad Pro. The OLED panel will feature improved brightness, longevity and durability, according to the outlet.

LG Display reportedly plans to begin production of the 12.9-inch OLED iPad‌ display between the end of 2023 and 2024.

Samsung Display is also expected to be preparing to supply panels for the OLED ‌iPad Pro‌ models alongside LG Display, following the cancellation of the OLED iPad Air that Samsung was working on for next year, the report said.

LG Display reportedly plans to use LTPO TFT technology to make the OLED panel up to two times brighter and prolong its working life by up to four times, according to The Elec. Considering that consumers use their tablets for long spells, improving the model's longevity is a priority for the company.