Apple Begins OLED Screen Production as Upcoming iPad Pro M5 Nears Release

Tech
By 24matins.uk,  published 26 June 2025 at 19h48, updated on 26 June 2025 at 19h49.
Tech

Apple has begun manufacturing OLED displays, signaling the forthcoming release of its next-generation iPad Pro M5. This move marks a significant step in Apple’s display technology evolution, with consumers anticipating improvements in performance and visual quality.

Tl;dr

  • OLED screens from Samsung and LG for both iPad sizes.
  • M5 chip offers performance boost, no major revolution yet.
  • Flagship launch likely in October, according to reports.

    • Changing Course: Apple’s New OLED Supplier Strategy

    It appears that Apple is quietly reshaping its approach to sourcing components for its next-generation iPad Pro. Unlike previous years—where each supplier handled a single display size—both Samsung and LG are now set to produce OLED screens for both the 11-inch and 13-inch models of the upcoming tablet. This update comes via a report from ZDNet Korea, suggesting that mass production is already underway for these cutting-edge panels, which will debut in what is currently codenamed the M5 iPad Pro.

    Such a shift signals more than just a technical evolution; it points to a larger, strategic move by the Cupertino giant.

    A More Resilient Supply Chain

    Why this change? Industry observers note that Apple‘s dual-supplier model serves as a calculated hedge against potential supply chain disruptions. Relying on both Samsung and LG for each display size bolsters the tech titan’s industrial resilience, while also paving the way for future innovations. Notably, this strategy could help streamline the transition to OLED technology across other devices—such as an anticipated iPad Mini (targeted for 2026) and a revamped iPad Air, expected in 2027.

    M5 Chip: Performance Improvements Without Radical Change

    Beyond screens, attention is turning to what will power these new tablets: the in-house developed M5 chip. According to sources including journalist Mark Gurman, production of this chip began as early as February, with advanced testing reportedly completed by spring. If accurate, this suggests an autumn release is imminent. Interestingly enough, there’s chatter that this same processor will also be found in an upcoming MacBook Pro refresh—though those hoping for OLED displays on laptops may have to wait until 2026.

    When it comes to features, however, caution is warranted. Few major upgrades are forecasted for this year’s models. Instead:

  • The focus will largely be on improved graphics capabilities and enhancements to the strengthened Neural Engine, which supports « Apple Intelligence » functions.

    • One important technical note: The M5 remains built on the familiar 3nm process—matching its M3 and M4 predecessors—as progress toward a 2nm process has yet to materialize.

    A Launch Just Around the Corner?

    So when can consumers expect all of this? Signs point firmly toward an October unveiling for these flagship devices. Although innovation may be incremental rather than radical this year, market anticipation remains high. In sum, even if this latest iPad Pro iteration isn’t rewriting the rulebook just yet, it looks set to reinforce Apple‘s position at the forefront of premium tablets.