Apple is working on a new version of the Studio Display. According to industry insiders, the Studio Display 2 could be released in late 2025 or early 2026. It is expected to feature several significant improvements, including a mini-LED backlight. This technology could provide higher brightness and better contrast. But that's not the only innovation being discussed.
The current Studio Display was introduced alongside the Mac Studio in 2022. There hasn't been a new version since then, but Apple now appears to be planning a revised version. Various leaks and analyst reports indicate that the display technology, in particular, could be improved. In addition to mini-LED technology, a possible increase in the refresh rate is also being discussed. Here's what's known so far.
The most important innovations of the Studio Display 2
Mini-LED for better brightness and contrast
According to Ross Young, a well-known display analyst, the Studio Display 2 will still be 27 inches in size but will feature a mini-LED backlight. The biggest advantage of this technology is the improved brightness and higher contrast ratio compared to the current model, which still uses traditional LED technology. Mini-LEDs enable local dimming, resulting in deeper blacks and more vibrant colors. This change could elevate the Studio Display 2 to the level of the Pro Display XDR, which also uses mini-LED. It's unclear, however, whether Apple will also improve HDR capabilities.
Will there be a higher refresh rate?
While Young didn't provide any information about the refresh rate of the new display, another source has provided information on this. An anonymous listener of the Relay FM podcast "Upgrade" claimed in November 2024 that Apple was testing 90 Hz technology for the next Studio Display. This would be a significant improvement over the current 60 Hz, but not yet a full 120 Hz ProMotion, as offered by some MacBook Pro models or the iPad Pro. A higher refresh rate ensures smoother movement on the screen, which is especially noticeable when scrolling and in animations. Whether Apple will actually opt for 90 Hz remains unclear.
Comparison with the current Studio Display
The current Studio Display was launched in March 2022 and offers the following specifications:
- 27-inch 5K display (5120 × 2880 pixels)
- 60 Hz refresh rate
- Brightness up to 600 nits
- Standard LED backlight
- Built-in camera and speaker
- One Thunderbolt 3 port and three USB-C ports
- Price from 1,749 euros
If the new model does indeed feature mini-LED and a higher refresh rate, that could drive up the price. The current model is priced at €1,749, while the Pro Display XDR with mini-LED costs at least €5,499. The Studio Display 2 could be priced somewhere in between.
When will the Studio Display 2 be released?
According to various sources, including Ming-Chi Kuo and Mark Gurman, the new Studio Display will not be released until 2025 at the earliest, but more likely in 2026. Gurman regularly reports on Apple leaks and has often been right in the past. Ross Young also has a good track record with Apple displays. For example, Young correctly predicted over a year in advance that the iPhone 16 Pro would feature a 6.3-inch display and the iPhone 16 Pro Max would feature a 6.9-inch display. His company, Display Supply Chain Consultants, was acquired by Counterpoint Research at the end of 2023, which could further improve his access to insider information.
The Studio Display 2 as the new standard solution for creatives?
The Studio Display 2 will likely be a sensible evolution of the current model. With mini-LED technology, it would be significantly brighter and offer higher contrast, and a 90 Hz refresh rate could ensure smoother display. Until the official announcement, however, it remains unclear whether other specifications will also change. If Apple doesn't raise the price too much, the new display could be an attractive choice for creatives and Mac users who need a high-quality 5K display. The official unveiling is expected this year, but a release in 2026 is more likely. Looking for the best accessories? Visit our Amazon storefront and discover a variety of products from top providers, including HomeKit-compatible ones! (Photo by Unsplash / Anthony Choren)
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