Apple is gearing up to unveil its latest iterations of the iPad Pro, featuring cutting-edge OLED displays in both 11- and 12.9-inch models, potentially as early as this month. However, a new analysis from esteemed analyst Ross Young points to potential supply constraints for the 11-inch model at launch, hinting at a staggered availability that may test the patience of Apple aficionados.
According to Young, in an exclusive update to his paid subscribers on social media, Samsung Display has taken the lead in manufacturing OLED screens for the smaller 11-inch iPad Pro. In a pivotal development expected later this month, LG Display is set to commence production of OLED panels for both the 11-inch and the 12.9-inch models, marking a significant step in diversifying the production chain and enhancing output capacity.
Despite these advancements, Young's insights reveal that the production pace for the 11-inch model's panels notably lags behind that of the larger 12.9-inch variant. This discrepancy suggests that the 11-inch iPad Pro may face initial supply shortages upon announcement, potentially limiting immediate availability for eager consumers.
This situation underscores the intricate balance Apple must navigate in managing supply chain dynamics, especially when introducing pioneering technology such as OLED screens in its flagship tablet line. The eventual inclusion of LG Display in the production process is expected to alleviate some of these constraints, gradually normalizing the availability of the 11-inch iPad Pro.
Further compounding the anticipation, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman recently indicated that the new iPad Pro lineup is poised for a launch window around the end of March or in April. Gurman also teased the concurrent release of a specialized version of iOS 17.4, specifically engineered to harness the capabilities of the new hardware, promising an enhanced user experience that leverages the superior display qualities of OLED technology.
This scenario presents a mixed bag of excitement and patience for Apple enthusiasts and prospective iPad Pro buyers. While the imminent arrival of these advanced tablets heralds a new era of Apple's technological innovation, those particularly drawn to the portability and convenience of the 11-inch model may need to brace for a brief wait. As production scales up and availability expands, the initial scarcity is likely to give way to widespread accessibility, rewarding those who wait with a premium tablet experience that sets new standards in display quality and user engagement.
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