Apple’s mini-LED iPad Pro and MacBook’s launch time frame revealed: Report

For the ‘high-end’ MacBook, the firm is expected to hire Osram Opto as a supplier for mini-LEDs.

Apple iPad (Pexels)

Some new information is coming out on the web about Apple's rumoured iPad and MacBook devices that may use Mini-LED display technology. Although this tech has been in rumours since months, a report from Digitimes now states that Apple may launch a 12.9-inch mini LED-backlit iPad Pro by early next year (2021). And a mini LED-backlit MacBook could come in the second half. The report adds that Epistar will supply the over-10,000 mini LEDs that Apple will be using in the iPad Pro tablet. 

“Epistar is ready to start production of mini LEDs by modifying its blue-light LED chipmaking equipment for producing such mini LEDs in third-quarter 2020,” stated the report.

And for the ‘high-end' MacBook, the firm is expected to hire Osram Opto as a supplier for mini-LEDs. This also cements the claim made by analyst Ming-Chi Kuo earlier this month.

Kuo has mentioned in the past that Apple might be working on two MacBook devices with mini-LED display tech. One could be a 16-inch model while the other one can be a 14.1-inch model.

In addition, Kuo recently mentioned that Apple's 12.9-inch iPad Pro will be the first device to get mini-LEDs. He pointed out that Epistar had faced yield issues initially. The supplier, however, has rapidly improved its mini LED capabilities to ensure large quantities of chips.

Apple's mini LED will go for mass production in the fourth quarter of 2020. The yield issues forced the analyst to revise display shipment estimate by up to 50%, between 300,000 and 400,000.

Apple's new mini LED displays are likely to help accelerate the adoption of the new display technology. It will also lead to lower component prices. According to Kuo, about 30-40% of iPads that will ship in 2021 will feature new display technology.