Apple could bring OLED displays to its iPad Air lineup in the first half of 2027, according to a new report from South Korea. The move would bring the Air closer to Apple’s premium iPad models.
The latest iPad Pro and iPad Mini already feature OLED displays. However, both the 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models still use LCD panels. The reported upgrade would mark a major display change for Apple’s mid-range tablet lineup.
South Korean industry sources estimate that Apple could ship 4 to 5 million OLED iPad Air units in 2027. The company could also ship 3 to 4 million iPad Pro units and 4 to 5 million iPad mini units.
Samsung Display is expected to supply OLED panels for the iPad mini. It could also handle most of the iPad Air orders alongside BOE. Meanwhile, LG Display and Samsung Display will continue supplying panels for the iPad Pro. LG Display is expected to take the larger share of those orders.
BOE is also reportedly seeking panel orders for one of the two iPad Air sizes. However, it remains unclear whether the Chinese supplier will secure the deal.
Apple is also expected to maintain a clear difference between its premium and cheaper OLED tablets. The iPad Pro will continue using tandem OLED technology with LTPO. In comparison, the iPad mini and iPad Air will reportedly use single-stack OLED panels with LTPS.
This approach would help Apple bring OLED displays to more affordable iPads without using the more expensive technology found in its Pro models.
