The next-generation Studio Display may arrive soon, and leaked code shows that it at least exists internally after three years without updates to the original.
Apple hasn’t forgotten about the Studio Display, though it has been slow to announce a new model. The expensive 27-inch Retina Display with 60Hz refresh and LED backlighting isn’t super appealing when the market is flooded with ultra-cheap OLED models.
According to leaked code discovered by MacRumors, Apple’s next-generation Studio Display is alive and well with codename J427. However, there’s no hint as to what features it may have or when it will release.
A second reference, J527, was also discovered, but it is unknown which device it could be referring to. It could be a different version of the Studio Display, a new Pro Display XDR, or a different device altogether.
Apple’s display proved somewhat controversial when it launched since it was backlit by LED and lacked faster refresh rates. While it was Retina 5K, consumers were quick to point out that similarly specced models were available at nearly half the price.
That, and Apple seemingly never took real advantage of the A13 processor beyond normal monitor processor functions.
The next Studio Display has been rumored to be quite the upgrade, though some of it may be wishcasting. Jumping to mini-LED backlighting and ProMotion could prove cost-prohibitive.
Apple could announce the updated Studio Display at any time. If it is imminent, it could launch either in the fall along with new M5 Macs or in the spring with updated MacBook Pros.
