Apple's MacBook Air OLED Upgrade Delayed to 2028 Amid Cost and Market Challenges
1min read Apple's plan to upgrade its MacBook Air series from LCD to OLED screens has encountered another delay, with new models now not expected until 2028, according to The Elec. An industry insider indicated that the postponement of component development has inevitably pushed back the product launch.
The primary reason for the delay is the significant cost associated with OLED screens. Unlike LCDs, OLED displays offer a more vivid color gamut and higher contrast, with faster response times and no need for a backlight. These benefits, however, come with a more complex production process and require sophisticated manufacturing techniques. The high cost of organic light-emitting materials further adds to the expense.
Apple is actively seeking ways to mitigate these costs by encouraging competition among suppliers for OLED panels. Yet, supply chain constraints limit their options, with Samsung currently the sole provider working with Apple to develop 13.3-inch OLED screens for future MacBook Air models. While MacBook Pro utilizes a dual-stack OLED design, the Air series may adopt a simpler single-stack configuration to further cut expenses.
Pricing the OLED-equipped MacBook Air is another dilemma for Apple. The increased production costs are likely to inflate retail prices, potentially undermining the product line's appeal, which hinges on offering value for money. A source from the supply chain mentioned that Apple is considering using lower-quality OLED screens to balance performance and cost, bringing it closer to the high-end MacBook Pro while minimizing price increases.
Moreover, Apple's recent release of the M4 chip and OLED screen-equipped iPad Pro faced lackluster sales, falling short of its projected figures. This tepid market response may reinforce Apple's hesitance in committing to OLED technology for the MacBook Air. External pressures also play a role in Apple's decision-making. The competitiveness of Windows-based laptops with OLED displays from brands like ASUS and Dell, which offer impressive performance at reasonable prices, compels Apple to reevaluate its Air series' market standing and adjust its upgrade strategy accordingly.