Apple is currently working on multiple new external monitors powered by Apple silicon. This includes a replacement for the Pro Display XDR that launched in 2019.
There’s no confirmed timeline for the launch of the new monitors.
Apple’s next high-end external monitor might feature a 7K panel
In the latest edition of his Power On newsletter, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman says Apple’s new external monitors could ship after an updated Mac Pro. The latter has been under development for a while and could launch in 2023.
In March 2022, a report claimed Apple is working on an external monitor with 7K resolution. It could come with a larger 36-inch panel or a higher pixel density of 245 PPI. For comparison, the 2019’s Pro Display XDR has a 6K resolution.
Newer Macs pack more powerful GPUs, so they are capable enough to drive such a high-resolution monitor.
Apple’s upcoming external monitors should require fewer resources from the system they are attached to, thanks to the built-in Apple silicon. The current-gen Studio Display features an A13 Bionic chip and 64GB storage. The chip processes the video from the monitor’s 12MP Ultra Wide camera for better quality.
Next-gen Pro Display XDR could pack several new features
Unlike the cheaper Studio Display, the 2019 Pro Display XDR misses out on a 12MP Ultra Wide camera and “Hey Siri” support. Its successor should pack these enhancements along with 120Hz ProMotion support. The Apple silicon inside the monitor likely will power these features, thereby reducing the load on the connected computer.
The Pro Display XDR launched alongside the Mac Pro in 2019. With both products due for an upgrade, Apple could follow a similar strategy this time around as well.
