Apple, it appears, is on a serious mission not only to increase the screen size of the popular MacBook Pro but also to refresh the screen technology on a bunch of its upcoming devices. According to a recent report filed by MacRumors, Apple is currently working on as many as six new devices that will all feature a screen with mini-LED technology. One of these devices is expected to be a new 14.1-inch MacBook Pro that will replace the outgoing 13.3-inch model.
The report cites an investor note sent out by noted Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo as a source for this new information. “We predict that Apple is currently developing six mini-LED-support products (vs. the previous report of only two products), including a 12.9-inch iPad Pro, a 27-inch iMac Pro in 4Q20, a 14.1-inch MacBook Pro (upgraded from 13.3-inch), a 16-inch MacBook Pro, a 10.2-inch iPad, and a 7.9-inch iPad mini in 2020,” reads the note. iPad and iPad mini fans can definitely expect a better viewing experience from the next generation.
If the analyst’s quote is interpreted correctly, Apple will invest more time and effort into the development and promotion of mini LEDs in the next five years. What’s more, this effort is likely to remain unaffected by the recent COVID-19 outbreak, which has forced many smartphone makers to rework their launch and supply schedules. The mini LED technology essentially allows more, smaller LEDs to be placed behind an LCD panel for improved picture quality through better light control. In other words, they enable specific parts (or zones) of the panel to be dimmed independently.
According to Kuo, the new 14.1-inch MacBook Pro could be launched alongside a refreshed 16-inch version sometime in the fourth quarter of the year. Only about three months ago did Apple refresh the 15-inch MacBook Pro by expanding its screen size to 16 inches. The Cupertino-based giant also threw in larger heatsinks, redesigned speakers, more powerful fans, and a reworked keyboard with improved ‘Magic’ scissor 1-millimetre keys. You can read our review of the 16-inch Apple MacBook Pro here.