Apple plans to release a refined version of the MacBook Air in the near future, which will feature an OLED display, but before that, the device is slated to transition to an advanced LCD panel. The change is expected to take place in 2027, and it will feature an Oxide TFT technology instead of the amorphous silicon (a-Si) panels on the current versions. While it will not be better than the OLED display, the new technology will offer better colors compared to the standard LCD panels on the current versions of the MacBook Air.
Apple will not give OLED treatment to the MacBook Air easily, as it plans to transition to more advanced LCD panels before making a switch
A new report published by The Elec suggests that Apple is expected to introduce advanced LCD technology for the MacBook Air lineup before shifting to OLED panels. The report also cites that next year's MacBook Pro models are on track to receive their OLED transition from mini-LED panels, which you can check out in our dedicated post.
The new Oxide TFT technology holds various benefits over the current technology and could be regarded as a significant upgrade. The new panels will bring better power efficiency and improved performance compared to the a-Si displays, which will allow the images to be sharper and more crisp with smoother scrolling and enhanced battery life. Additional benefits include more consistent brightness across the entire screen and faster response times. Practically, the new technology will reduce motion blur when it comes to gaming and media consumption. The clouding effect would also be reduced, which is currently an issue on LCD displays.
Samsung and BOE will supply the new panels, and according to the report, both suppliers are currently developing manufacturing capabilities for the Oxide TFT displays. Samsung's Display Division is installing new deposition machines on its A6 production line, and BOE is also incorporating the same techniques on its B16 production line. While the exact production capacity has not been shared, both suppliers are planning to produce millions of units.
Apple's transition to advanced LCD displays for the MacBook Air lineup also means that the company is delaying the OLED transition for the future MacBook Air lineup. However, the same can not be said about the MacBook Pro models, as the machines are slated to shift to OLED displays next year, which will be a major upgrade compared to the current versions. We can safely presume that the company will use the same technology as it did for the OLED iPad Pro, but since the final word rests with Apple, be sure to take the news with a grain of salt.
About the author: Ali Salman is a technology reporter for Wccftech mobile section with a specialized focus on Apple and the intellectual property that drives mobile innovation. He has cultivated a unique expertise in analyzing and deconstructing complex technology patents, translating dense legal and technical documents into clear, insightful reports on future products.
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