Studio Display 2: New details on the Apfelpatient upgrade

The Studio Display has been part of Apple's monitor portfolio since March 2022 and is primarily aimed at professional Mac users. Technically, little has changed since its introduction. This has only heightened the interest in a potential successor. A new report now suggests that Apple is developing two new Studio Display models. In addition to previously known references to ProMotion and HDR, two further upgrades have surfaced that have not yet been publicly discussed. The information comes from internal files and provides a relatively detailed look at what might be planned for the Studio Display 2.

Macworld journalist Filipe Espósito has once again reported on Apple's work on new Studio Display models. His report is based on lines of code from "internal Apple files" that apparently refer to a macOS Tahoe kernel debug kit. This debug kit was leaked online last year.

According to Espósito, these internal clues suggest that Apple is preparing two different Studio Display variants. Both are expected to feature ProMotion, enabling a significantly higher refresh rate than the current model. HDR support is also anticipated. Some details come directly from the internal files, while others are classifications or logical deductions based on the technical requirements.

ProMotion and HDR: Higher refresh rate for the Studio Display

The current Studio Display operates at a fixed refresh rate of 60 Hz. According to reports, the new models will support ProMotion, which would enable a frequency of up to 120 Hz. A higher refresh rate results in noticeably smoother scrolling, softer animations, and an overall more stable display of motion. This would be a significant improvement, especially for video editing or fast-moving scenes.

ProMotion will also introduce HDR support. HDR stands for extended dynamic range, higher peak brightness, and stronger contrasts. This will allow content to be displayed with greater detail, especially in bright and dark image areas.

However, there are conflicting reports regarding the maximum refresh rate. Another leaker claims that at least one of the new Studio Display models will only support 90 Hz. If this is true, it's conceivable that Apple will differentiate between a base and a high-end model. Which information will ultimately prove correct remains to be seen.

Two previously unknown upgrades for the high-end model

In addition to ProMotion and HDR, the report mentions two further improvements for the more powerful Studio Display that have not been discussed previously.

Firstly, the high-end model is expected to receive improved speakers. According to Apple, the current Studio Display features a "high-fidelity system with six speakers" and supports spatial audio. This configuration is already considered high-end for a monitor. The new generation could improve upon this even further, although concrete technical details are currently unavailable.

Secondly, more and/or higher-quality ports are expected. The current Studio Display offers one Thunderbolt 3 port for connecting and simultaneously charging a Mac, as well as three USB-C ports for accessories. At least one Thunderbolt 5 port is considered likely for the upcoming model. Thunderbolt 5 provides significantly more bandwidth and would be necessary to reliably drive a 5K resolution at 120 Hz while simultaneously connecting peripherals. An upgraded port selection would clearly enhance the Studio Display 2 technically.

Different screen sizes in conversation

Espósito also speculates that the high-end studio display could be equipped with a 32-inch panel, while the more affordable model remains at 27 inches. However, this information is not based on internal documents, but rather on an estimate.

A 32-inch display raises an important technical question. At 5K resolution, the pixel density would decrease, and it would no longer offer Retina quality. To maintain the familiar sharpness, Apple would have to increase the resolution to 6K. A comparison with the Pro Display XDR, which uses a 6K resolution at 32 inches, is obvious. Whether Apple will actually take this step with the Studio Display 2 is currently unclear.

Mini-LED and possible realignment in the line-up

Display expert Ross Young had previously stated that at least one of the new Studio Display models would be equipped with Mini-LED backlighting. Mini-LED allows for more precise control of individual dimming zones, resulting in better contrast and higher peak brightness.

Should this rumor prove true, the Studio Display 2 would be technologically closer to professional reference monitors. In this context, there is also speculation that Apple might eventually discontinue the Pro Display XDR and instead offer several Studio Display variants in different price and performance segments. However, this remains purely speculative.

New chip: A19 or A19 Pro

Another possible step concerns the integrated processor. The current Studio Display uses an A13 Bionic chip. At least one of the upcoming models is expected to use an A19 or A19 Pro chip. A more modern chip could enable improvements to the camera, audio functions, and overall system performance. It would also create more headroom for future software features.

Especially with regard to image processing and center-stage functions, an updated chip would be a logical next step.

No major design changes are expected

Visually, the Studio Display 2 is expected to see few changes. The report doesn't anticipate any major design alterations. The aluminum casing and familiar design language are likely to remain largely unchanged. Apple seems to be focusing primarily on technical improvements.

Possible market launch 2026

According to reports, Apple plans to launch the new Studio Display models in the first half of 2026. The current Studio Display was introduced in March 2022 alongside the first Mac Studio. The wait for an update would therefore be comparatively long.

Furthermore, a new Apple monitor recently appeared in a government database. This suggests that the release is indeed approaching.

Studio Display 2: An overview of all expected new features

The information gathered so far about the Studio Display 2 paints a clear picture: Apple is apparently working on two new monitors with different specifications. A higher refresh rate of up to 120 Hz, HDR support, improved speakers, modernized connectivity options including Thunderbolt 5, possibly Mini-LED technology, and a new A19 or A19 Pro chip are expected. A 32-inch model is also rumored, which would likely require a higher resolution.

Not all details are confirmed, and some points are based on speculation. Nevertheless, there are strong indications that the Studio Display is about to receive a major technical update. If the planned timeframe proves accurate, the next generation should be officially unveiled in the first half of 2026. (Image: Shutterstock / Hadrian)