The predictions of a MacBook Air in 2027 could turn out to be optimistic, according to sources in the screen panel industry. Prices for the OLED display are high, and there’s reason to question demand for the new type of screen.
An OLED MacBook Pro is expected sooner, however.
OLED MacBook Air… eventually
MacBook Air models include traditional LCDs with standard backlights, the least expensive display type. But Apple is in the process of transitioning all its computers to OLED (short for organic light-emitting diode), in which each pixel glows on its own. The result is a bright, even image with strong contrast. This type of screen looks so good, it’s already used for iPhone and Apple Watch. And the most-recent M4 iPad Pro has one, too.
The downside of OLED panels is they cost more than LCDs. And the cost shoots up as panels get larger.
Nevertheless, a recent report indicated that MacBook Pro will probably get an OLED screen in 2026. At the time, it was thought MacBook Air would follow suit in 2027. But sources at companies that make computer components told The Elec that the wait for the Air could stretch out farther. The decision reportedly comes down to price and demand.
MacBook Air is Apple’s lowest-cost notebook, and the price of OLED panels for it might be too high. There are only two companies that can supply Apple with the panels —LG Display and Samsung Display — so there’s not much price competition. In short, Apple will have to deal with a boost in the cost of the component.
Maybe not worth it
And there’s reason to doubt consumers will be willing to pay more. Sources at screen panel makers question current demand for OLED, given its higher price. They point out that the OLED iPad Pro introduced in spring 2024 enjoyed a burst of sales after launching but months later isn’t selling as well as Apple hoped. The tablet came with a $100 cost increase.
A challenge in the LCD-to-OLED transition is that Apple’s LCDs are already gorgeous. It seems people don’t see a need to pay more for a panel that’s not a dramatic improvement.
Still, to reiterate, those eager for an OLED MacBook will likely be able to get a Pro with the enhanced screen in 2026. It just isn’t coming to cheaper MacBooks any time soon.
