Why Apple’s Transition To Mini-LED Technology Is A Good Thing

Previous reports indicate that Apple might introduce devices that make use of mini-LED technology for displays. What will transitioning to this new tech do for the company and the consumer?

Earlier this year, reports talking about Apple adopting the use of mini-LED technology for its devices have surfaced, claiming that the Cupertino-based tech giant could use it on as much as six new devices coming this year amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The new technology is seen to bring a slew of benefits to the said devices. Here's a quick rundown on what these benefits could be.

Significantly improved displays

The display panels used in Apple's devices use LED for backlighting purposes. Mini-LEDs, as the name implies, are smaller light-emitting diodes not bigger than 0.2mm in size, Macrumors noted.

Panels using mini-LEDs will be required to use more LEDs compared to traditional LEDs, which will lead to an increase in the number of dimming zones. The increase in the number of total dimming zones will result in deeper blacks, improved brights, vivid colors and better contrast.

Noted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, speaking about mini-LEDs, reportedly said the new technology will “significantly improve productivity and the entertainment experience. ”

None of the problems of OLED

Mini-LED provides the same benefits as OLED, but doesn't suffer from the same burn-in or degradation issues plaguing devices with OLED panels. Users are assured they won't have to worry about unsightly screens with long-term use.

Slimmer, lighter devices

Kuo also said that by using mini-LED, Apple will be able to create thinner and lighter product designs without losing any of the benefits that OLED brings. This means users can expect improved portability across iPads, MacBooks, and so on.

Improved power efficiency

Mini-LED is also seen to offer additional power efficiency compared to other displays, particularly those that use cathode fluorescent lighting for backlighting purposes.

Apple is said to be working on several devices that feature the new mini-LED technology. These devices include the following:

• 16-inch MacBook Pro
• 14.1-inch MacBook Pro
• 27-inch iMac Pro
• 12.9-inch iPad Pro
• Low-cost iPad
• iPad mini

These devices are expected to arrive in the near future. The MacBook Pro, iMac Pro and iPad Pro might be the first devices to include the new technology.