William Gallagher
A new supply chain report claims that Apple's 2024 iPad Pro models with OLED screens will cost up to 80% more than the current releases.
Following its existing February report that the forthcoming iPad Pro with OLED display would be more costly, The Elec now says that its industry sources have backed up the claims.
Specifically, the 11-inch iPad Pro with OLED display is reported to be 80% more expensive than the current generation. It's claimed this model will start at $1,500.
The 12.9-inch edition, which The Elec consistently refers to as a 13-inch model, is said to be 60% more costly. It will start at $1,800.
According to The Elec, its industry sources are divided in their response to the potential prices. The publication summarizes people in favor of the price as saying it is "a reasonable increase even considering that it is an Apple product with loyal customers."
Sources arguing against the move, though, are summarized as saying that, "the iPad is not as loyal as the iPhone and has a lot of replacements [alternatives], so it will be difficult to maintain the existing iPad Pro lineup sales at $1500 to $1800."
Apple is reportedly discussing pricing with manufacturers LG Display and Samsung Display. None have commented on the reports.
The Elec has a poor reputation for predicting Apple's plans, but a much stronger one for its industry sources. In this case, it's also likely that the price increase claim is correct because Apple wants two layers of OLED on the iPad Pro, instead of one.
If it is correct, the OLED iPad Pro models will cost more than some MacBook editions. However, Apple is reportedly also considering OLED screens for the MacBook Pro in 2026.
Christine McKee
AppleInsider Staff
Chip Loder
Malcolm Owen
37 Comments
I have a 3rd gen iPP 12.9” and it’s treated me well over the years. Been waiting to see what comes next, but I’m certainly not shelling out $1,800 for a new one if what was described actually goes on sale. I’d make a current 6th gen last me another 5 years first.
Galaxy tab S8 + has a 12.4" oled screen and starts at $899 for Wi-Fi version
and galaxy tab s8 ultra has a 14.6" oled screen and starts at $1099
ipads are already pricier than their competitors
I'm sure that oled screens are great and awesome. So is the screen on my $449 ipad. I just don't see where the marginal value of an oled screen will drive a higher net profit on ipads. Assuming the galaxy tab s8 devices have oled screens and are at current comparable prices, I don't see how the ipad pro models can justify a 60-80% price increase in many people's eyes. yes, some will buy it. however, I think the price increase also forces people down to the ipad air or regular ipad.
If Apple wants it to replace a MacBook then it needs to do everything a MacBook can...overlapping windows...develop applications, etc. otherwise it's too much money to run vertical business applications.
Every time the topic of price comes up the yapping starts. I spent $5K to replace my late 2013 27” iMac with a Mac Studio Max and Studio Monitor and I’m glad I did. This will be my primary machine for the foreseeable future.