Apple launched the Pro Display XDR in 2019, retailing at $4999, excluding a stand, which is sold separately for $999. Since its release, the display has remained unchanged despite advances in display technology, leading to speculation about the next generation of Apple’s premium monitor, which may not be a direct successor to the Pro Display XDR.
Apple Silicon Integration
Released in 2022, the Studio Display stands out as it incorporates an A13 Bionic chip, enabling features such as Center Stage and spatial audio. In contrast, the original Pro Display XDR lacks an Apple Silicon chip. However, a Bloomberg report from 2022 indicates that Apple may include one in the next iteration:
Apple is working on multiple new external monitors, including an updated version of the Pro Display XDR launched alongside the Intel Mac Pro in 2019. It’s possible that the new high-end display will be released after the Mac Pro, as that device is further along in development.
If this rumor proves accurate, we can anticipate the Pro Display XDR 2 to feature an Apple Silicon chip, potentially allowing for built-in cameras and speakers that the current model lacks.
Potential Studio Display Pro
In a recent Power On newsletter, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman noted that Apple is developing various models of the next generation Studio Display. He briefly mentioned the Pro Display XDR, suggesting a possibility of a high-end Studio variant:
Apple seems to be working on a second new monitor code-named J527. Although it appears unlikely to be a direct sequel to its predecessor due to the time elapsed since updates, it could either be another model or a variant with different specifications.
Quantum Dot Technology
Display analyst Ross Young has indicated that Apple plans to integrate quantum dot films in the updated Pro Display XDR, akin to the enhancements made in the new M4 MacBook Pro:
As Apple uses quantum dot films now, there’s potential for replacing KSF films in other products. We expect this technology to appear in the upcoming Pro Display XDR.
However, it’s uncertain whether mini-LED will also be utilized in the new model, which currently relies on a high-quality IPS panel with local-dimming capabilities. Additionally, a higher refresh rate like 120Hz would be desirable, especially with MacBooks having implemented this for over three years.
Additional Speculation
Ming-Chi Kuo, a supply chain analyst, reported in 2023 that Apple plans to introduce a 27-inch miniLED monitor by 2025. While this may not pertain directly to the Pro Display XDR, it’s noteworthy since Kuo labels it as a “high-end monitor.” He claimed that this future display will be thinner with reduced bezels.
Furthermore, there have been reports on 9to5Mac indicating Apple is exploring a display with 7K resolution, which certainly aligns with advancements that could be made for a future Pro Display XDR.
Expected Release Timeline
Display analyst Ross Young anticipates the Pro Display XDR 2 to launch either in late 2025 or early 2026. However, this remains speculative.
Conversely, Mark Gurman’s latest Power On newsletter suggests that introducing a new version of a $5,000 product is not a priority for Apple, given the niche market for such high-end monitors:
Creating a new Pro Display XDR may be deprioritized as it remains inaccessible to most consumers, especially after Apple’s struggles with premium priced devices like the $3,500 Vision Pro.
This indicates that Apple may focus more on a 27-inch Studio Display Pro rather than a direct replacement for the existing 32-inch Pro Display XDR. Only time will reveal Apple’s trajectory in this space.
