Apple’s latest M5 iPad Pro has introduced some major performance improvements with the new chipset. However, one upgrade seemingly fell under the radar – the support for driving external displays at up to 120Hz with Adaptive Sync. Apple’s decision to finally support high refresh rate on external monitors with the iPad Pro could indicate that the next-gen Studio Display might come with a 120Hz panel.
A 120Hz refresh rate would be a significant step forward for workflows that demand high frame rates and reduced latency, such as gaming, creative video editing, and rapid-response tasks. According to MacRumors, the addition of this to the M5 iPad Pro hints towards a Studio Display refresh with a 120Hz panel. It is also the first time such an upgrade has made its way to an iPads.
Apple’s Studio Display, released in March 2022, is limited to a 60Hz refresh rate. The timing of this iPad upgrade suggests Apple could be preparing to introduce similar high-refresh-rate technology to its next Studio Display.
Although Macs have long supported 120Hz external displays, Apple has yet to ship a standalone monitor with a refresh rate above 60Hz.
The Studio Display currently features a 27-inch 5K LCD panel, 600 nits of brightness, built-in camera and speakers, and the A13 Bionic chip. Despite these high-end features, its 60Hz refresh rate lags behind the MacBook Pro, which has used mini-LED technology and a 120Hz ProMotion display since 2021.
New Apple Studio Display, here is what we know
Apart from the high refresh rate, there are multiple reports that indicate a big upgrade for the Studio Display. According to analysts Ross Young, Apple is expected to finally bring there mini-LED backlighting to replace the LCD panel in the original monitor. If implemented, mini-LED would improve brightness, contrast, and colour accuracy, bringing the monitor in line with the MacBook Pro models in display.
The new Studio Display is also tipped to use the A19 Pro chipset from the iPhone 17 Pro models, instead of the A13 Bionic on the current generation.
Other features carried over from the current Studio Display are expected, including multiple Thunderbolt and USB-C ports, a built-in camera, and support for “Hey Siri” commands.
Apple Studio Display launch and expected price
According to Bloomberg, the next-gen Studio Display could launch in early 2026. There is little information available about the pricing of the new model. The current Studio Display was launched in India at Rs 1,59,900.
