DigiTimes suggests that Apple’s upcoming iPad Pro models featuring OLED displays may see a more conservative increase in prices compared to initial rumors, with the speculated increment being up to $160. This contrasts with earlier, more exaggerated reports that had anticipated a more substantial surge in the device’s pricing.
As of now, the 11-inch iPad Pro starts at $799, while the 12.9-inch model, equipped with a mini-LED display, begins at $1,099. Initial predictions had hinted at a potential starting price of $1,500 for the next-gen 11-inch OLED iPad Pro and $1,800 for the 13-inch model. Some reports had even suggested prices reaching up to $2,000, possibly tied to higher storage configurations for the larger variant.
Although DigiTimes doesn’t disclose the source of its $160 price increase information, if accurate, it could mean that the base price of the 11-inch OLED iPad Pro remains below $1,000, while the 13-inch model could start at approximately $1,200 to $1,300.
The rise in costs is attributed to the adoption of OLED panels, a departure from Apple’s previous iPad displays. OLED panels are generally more expensive compared to LCD panels, and Apple’s specific requirements, such as a thin design using a tandem-stack approach, contribute to the higher cost. The OLED panels are reportedly being supplied by Samsung and LG Display, who are said to be developing these specialized two-stack tandem OLED panels exclusively for Apple.
Image: Apple
The upcoming iPad Pro models are anticipated to be equipped with Apple’s latest M3 chips. There’s speculation about the inclusion of MagSafe charging, and a refreshed version of the Magic Keyboard is expected, featuring a larger trackpad to give the iPad Pro a more laptop-like appearance.
The launch of the new iPad Air and iPad Pro models, along with accompanying accessories, is projected to take place around the end of March.