Apple rumoured to release new MacBook Pro models by the end of 2023

Apple rumoured to launch new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models with better mini-LED displays.

The focus of the mini-LED enhancement is to save power and extend battery life
The exact launch time is uncertain.

Apple is reportedly preparing to launch new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models with enhanced mini-LED displays before the end of 2023, according to a recent report by DigiTimes.

The upgraded mini-LED backlighting is said to increase display brightness by 10% while consuming less power, thereby improving battery life.

Enhanced Mini-LED Displays for MacBook Pro

The upcoming MacBook Pro devices are expected to feature mini-LEDs that are 10% brighter than previous models, without changing the number of mini-LED chips in the backlighting module.

The primary objective of this enhancement is not to improve picture quality but rather to save power and extend battery life.

The mini-LED technology, previously adopted by Apple for its tablets and notebooks, offers a significant improvement in brightness while consuming less energy.

Launch Timing and Speculation

While DigiTimes' supply chain report suggests a fourth-quarter 2023 launch for the new MacBook Pro models, other sources cast doubt on this timing.

It is worth noting that Apple recently updated the MacBook Pro lineup with M2 Pro and M2 Max chips in January, and many rumours indicate that refreshed models are planned for next year.

Industry experts such as Bloomberg's Mark Gurman and Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggest that MacBook Pro models with advanced M3 Pro and M3 Max chips will likely debut in 2024.

However, recent information obtained by MacRumors indicates that Apple may begin accepting trade-ins for some Mac models this month, potentially signalling an imminent release.

Future Display Technology Plans

Looking ahead, the report highlights that Apple could switch to hybrid OLED displays for the iPad Pro series in 2024, abandoning the use of mini-LED backlighting.

As for the MacBook Pro devices, mini-LED technology is expected to persist until 2026. This timeline aligns with concerns about the burn-in issue typically associated with OLED screens, particularly as laptops are often left turned on for prolonged periods.

Ross Young, CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants, predicts that Apple's supply chain will have sufficient capacity for notebook-optimised OLED production by 2026.

However, Young suggests that OLED displays may be prioritised for tablets, such as the iPad Pro, until then. Nevertheless, there is a possibility of an earlier release of an OLED MacBook Air.

DigiTimes, known for receiving information from Apple's component suppliers, has a mixed track record in accurately interpreting Apple's plans.

Therefore, it is advisable to approach this information with some scepticism until further corroboration is obtained from additional sources. Relying solely on rumours can sometimes lead to misinformation.

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