What Can Mini-LED Do For This Year's iPad?

Apple will reportedly be using new mini-LED technology on this year's upcoming iPad models. What will the new technology do to the device, and what can it benefit consumers?

A new leak, coming by way of Taiwanese publication Economic Daily News (via MacRumors), has revealed that Taiwan-based Innolux will supply Apple with mini-LED panels that will be used in this year's new iPad Pro, which is slated for release during the second half of the year.

Noted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said mini-LED displays will “significantly improve productivity and the entertainment experience.” He added that the new display technology, which will offer the same benefits that OLED brings, will allow tech companies to create thinner and lighter devices.

That said, what can consumers expect to benefit from an iPad Pro with mini-LED display? Here are some things:

• The same benefits consumers get from OLED

OLED panels are known for being a better display option than LCD screens. These panels offer a higher contrast ratio, higher brightness levels, as well as deeper blacks thanks to the panel's ability to turn OLEDs off.

Mini-LED panels are expected to feature the same benefits, but because each LED is smaller in size and can be placed closer to each other, the panel can have more LEDs than a traditional OLED screen. This results in more vivid colors, better color control, and better color variety.

• Cheaper than OLED

Despite mini-LED's ability to squeeze more LEDs in a small space, it is seen to cost less compared to OLED panels. The smaller spacing between LEDs are expected to result in lower overall design costs.

Of course, it's unclear whether the lower cost will translate to lower iPad Pro selling prices. At this point, it's better to not expect it to sell for less than it normally does.

• Better energy consumption than OLED

Economic Daily News claims that mini-LED will consume less energy compared to OLED panels. This means users should be able to enjoy longer battery life.

All in all, mini-LED panels are expected to feature richer colors and deliver better-looking images and videos on the iPad, Tom's Guide noted. This means the iPad will be a very vital tool for creatives who love to take their work on the go.