Apple is apparently working on an iMac with an OLED display. Initial reports indicate that the company has already set specific requirements for suppliers. The goal is significantly improved image quality and the use of the most powerful OLED technology to date in an Apple device.
The iMac currently still uses an LCD panel, while Apple is already relying on more modern display technologies in other product areas. A switch to OLED is therefore considered the logical next step, but it is being prepared for in the long term and implemented with meticulous technical care.
Concrete plans for the OLED panel
Apple has commissioned Samsung Display and LG Display, among others, to develop prototypes for a 24-inch OLED panel. These are to be based on existing production facilities and specifically designed for a future iMac (via ZDNet Korea).
The target values are clear: 600 nits of brightness at around 218 PPI. This keeps the pixel density at the level of the current iMac, which, however, only achieves 500 nits and still relies on LCD. The focus is therefore on better image quality, not higher resolution. At the same time, it would be the largest OLED panel Apple has ever used.
Progress at Samsung
Samsung Display plans to deliver the first samples with approximately 220 PPI to Apple as early as the second half of 2026. These will utilize QD-OLED technology, which provides improved brightness and color reproduction.
A key advancement lies in the higher pixel density, as current QD-OLED monitors only achieve around 160 PPI. This is supported by new manufacturing technology from SEMES, which enables higher resolutions.
LG relies on its own technology
LG Display is also developing suitable panels, albeit with a different approach. Instead of quantum dot technology, color filters are used, which can mean slightly lower brightness.
To compensate for this, LG is working on a new 5-stack OLED design with an additional green layer. The company is also developing "eLEAP" technology, which eliminates the need for fine metal masks and is intended to make production more efficient. This technology is also planned for future MacBooks.
Timeline and current developments
An OLED iMac is currently not expected until 2029 or 2030. In the short term, Apple continues to rely on traditional updates. Following the M4 iMac from October 2024 with a 12MP center-stage camera, a model with an M5 chip is considered the next step.
The OLED iMac is therefore clearly a long-term project.
Apple is preparing for the big display change
Evidence is mounting that Apple intends to fundamentally modernize the iMac. With clear specifications, multiple suppliers, and new production processes, preparations are already underway for the switch to OLED.
Even though the launch is still a few years away, everything points to a significant leap in quality, focusing primarily on contrast, brightness, and efficiency. (Image: Apple)
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