MacBook Air OLED Model Delayed Until After 2027, Says Report
- Apple’s most affordable MacBook isn’t getting OLED anytime soon—here’s what’s holding it back.
- Expect brighter colors and deeper blacks… but not until after 2027, says a new report.
- Supply chain issues and high costs mean no OLED for the MacBook Air yet—are you willing to wait?
Apple’s rumored plan to release a MacBook Air with an OLED display has reportedly been postponed until after 2027, according to Korean publication The Elec. Originally speculated for a 2027 launch, Apple’s OLED ambitions for its best-selling laptop are now further off than anticipated, largely due to high production costs and supply chain challenges.
Photo via Majin Bu // A concept image of a futute MacBook Air model in multiple color shades.
Why OLED on MacBook Air Is Delayed
The transition from LCD to OLED isn’t a simple one—especially for a device like the MacBook Air, where affordability is a key selling point. OLED displays offer vivid colors, deeper blacks, and enhanced contrast, but they also come with a price premium. For Apple, this premium could make the MacBook Air significantly more expensive, a change the company might be hesitant to introduce.
The Elec notes that Apple is wary of pricing out its core MacBook Air customers, preferring to delay OLED adoption rather than pass on these high production costs. A source close to the matter mentioned that “the parts development schedule was pushed back, and as of now, the product release cannot be helped but be delayed as well.”
Apple isn’t interested in jacking up the price too much just for a pretty screen.— The Elec
A Look at OLED Competition and Market Realities
Meanwhile, Apple’s competitors have embraced OLED in similar devices, albeit with mixed success. Laptops such as the Asus Zenbook S 14 and Dell XPS 13 offer OLED displays at more accessible prices, providing a competitive alternative for users seeking premium visuals without a substantial Apple markup. The OLED-equipped Asus Zenbook S 14 starts at a competitive $949, positioning it well below Apple’s premium laptops.
Photo via CNET // Apple's newest MacBook Air, the M3 MacBook Air, in two sizes.
The OLED iPad Pro’s Impact on Apple’s OLED Plans
Apple’s recent experience with the OLED iPad Pro may also be influencing this decision. After the iPad Pro OLED launch, Apple’s sales expectations of 10 million units for 2024 were recalibrated to 6–7 million units due to lower-than-anticipated demand. It appears that the OLED feature didn’t create the surge Apple expected, which could explain its hesitance to bring OLED to the MacBook Air lineup.
Differences Between OLED in Air and Pro Models
According to reports, the MacBook Air, when it eventually receives an OLED upgrade, may feature a single-stack OLED configuration—a more cost-effective option. In contrast, the anticipated 2026 MacBook Pro OLED will utilize a dual-stack design for superior brightness and display quality. This distinction keeps the Pro model’s premium status intact, as its dual-stack OLED is expected to deliver twice the brightness of the single-stack version in the Air.
Samsung Display is likely to supply the 13.3-inch OLED panels for the Air, though it remains uncertain which manufacturer, if any, will produce panels for a potential 15-inch model.
Photo via iPhon.fr // Another concept of Apple's upcoming MacBook Air redesign, shown in multiple new colors including blue, red, green and yellow.
What’s Next for MacBook Air?
While OLED is delayed, Apple enthusiasts won’t have to wait long for the next MacBook Air update. The M4-powered version, expected to launch in early 2025, will retain the familiar LCD display, offering a familiar design while incorporating Apple’s latest chip advancements.
Recommended by the editors:
Thank you for visiting Apple Scoop! As a dedicated independent news organization, we strive to deliver the latest updates and in-depth journalism on everything Apple. Have insights or thoughts to share? Drop a comment below—our team actively engages with and responds to our community. Return to the home page.Published to Apple Scoop on 9th November, 2024.
No password required
A confirmation request will be delivered to the email address you provide. Once confirmed, your comment will be published. It's as simple as two clicks.
Your email address will not be published publicly. Additionally, we will not send you marketing emails unless you opt-in.