The iPad Air is known for its sleek and lightweight design, impressive performance, long battery life, and versatility for gaming, watching videos, and productivity. However, one drawback of the current model is its use of an LCD panel and 60Hz refresh rate, which can make it feel somewhat outdated compared to Apple’s higher-end devices.
Exciting news may be on the horizon for iPad Air fans, as recent reports from The Elec suggest that Samsung Display could become the main supplier of OLED panels for the device as soon as 2026. This timeline is significantly earlier than previously expected, with rumors originally pointing to a 2028 release for OLED displays on the iPad Air.
According to The Elec, Samsung Display has a strong OLED production capacity, particularly with the A3 line capable of producing 135,000 panels per month for iPhone and iPad Pro OLED screens. In comparison, LG Display’s production lines fall behind with significantly lower output numbers.
The possibility of Apple extending OLED screens to other devices like the iPad Mini and a potential foldable device is also mentioned in the report. Additionally, it’s speculated that while the iPad Pro utilizes a Tandem OLED setup, the iPad Air may opt for a more traditional OLED technology to help manage costs.
While The Elec is reputable for its supply chain and production insights, the information about OLED screens for the iPad Air in 2026 should be taken with caution. More concrete details are likely to emerge in the coming years.
