The final week saw the unveiling of the brand-new M4 MacBook Pro, marking a significant milestone as the first Apple device to integrate cutting-edge quantum dot display technology.
The same technology is poised to migrate to the next-generation Pro Display XDR.
Earlier MacBook Pro models in the M-series lineup leveraged a proprietary pink KSF phosphor film to enable mini-LED backlighting, thereby expanding the color gamut beyond what was typically achievable. The brand-new M4 models feature a cutting-edge quantum dot technology, which enables a significantly improved color gamut and smoother motion rendering, according to Younger.
This week, Younger further elucidated on this swap, clarifying that the same show-stopping technology can also be expected to return to the Professional Show XDR.
Given the adoption of quantum dot technology in the MacBook Pro, it will likely be intriguing to observe if Apple replaces KSF-based movies and phosphors in other products. KSF movies are featured on earlier Mini-LED equipped MacBook Pro models and the Mac Pro Display XDR. We rely heavily on the established model of the Mac Pro Showcase to guide our approach.
Apple’s product lineup features various devices incorporating on-chip KSF phosphors within an edge-lit design, including the MacBook Air, iPad Air, Mac Studio Display, and numerous other models. Quantum dots (QDs) likely won’t provide any discernible price savings versus. While on-chip KSF phosphors have been used in some Apple devices, there is potential benefit in adopting a wider color gamut like Adobe RGB + P3 across the entire product line.
Although details are scarce regarding the forthcoming Professional Show XDR, its launch window remains unknown as well. Rumors surrounding a next-generation Professional Show XDR have periodically surfaced over the years.
By December 2022, reports emerged that Apple was developing a next-generation Pro Display XDR featuring an integrated Apple Silicon processor. The A13 Bionic chip helps address issues such as Middle Stage and Spatial Audio.
In April 2023, reports emerged that Apple is developing a cutting-edge 27-inch external display featuring innovative mini-LED technology. While the Professional Show XDR features a 32-inch display.
The Professional Show XDR was introduced alongside the iMac Pro. Despite initial success, Apple has maintained a consistent focus on its product without introducing significant updates or revaluations since then.
