Apple's OLED MacBook Pro on Track for 2026, but MacBook Air OLED Delayed Until After 2029

Apple’s highly anticipated transition to OLED displays for its MacBook lineup is moving forward, but with a notable delay for the MacBook Air. According to a new report from The Elec, OLED MacBook Pro models are still expected to launch in 2026, while the OLED MacBook Air may not arrive until after 2029.

OLED MacBook Pro on Schedule

Samsung Display is leading the development of Apple’s MacBook OLED panels. Its 8th-generation IT OLED production line, known as A6, is progressing with two key deposition machines. The first machine has already been installed and is currently producing IT OLED samples specifically for Apple’s upcoming MacBook Pro models. Industry estimates suggest that Apple could ship between 3 to 5 million OLED MacBook Pro units annually once production ramps up.

Despite minor logistical adjustments, Samsung Display remains on track to meet Apple’s 2026 launch target. The increased adoption of OLED technology in the MacBook Pro lineup will bring significant improvements in color accuracy, contrast, and energy efficiency.

MacBook Air OLED Delayed

While Apple originally planned to introduce an OLED MacBook Air in 2027, those plans have now changed. The report suggests that Apple has pushed back the OLED MacBook Air launch until after 2029. Instead, Apple will release a new LCD MacBook Air in 2027, featuring a next-generation oxide thin-film transistor (TFT) technology. This new oxide TFT technology provides higher electron mobility compared to traditional amorphous silicon (a-Si) displays, leading to better efficiency and improved visuals.

Samsung Display’s Production Strategy

Samsung Display’s second deposition machine, which was originally expected to be dedicated to Apple, will now produce IT OLED panels for other clients. This change reflects Apple’s decision to delay the MacBook Air OLED project and indicates Samsung’s need to secure additional customers for its OLED production lines.

To accommodate production timeline shifts, display equipment supplier ICD has extended its contract with Canon Tokki—the manufacturer of key deposition machine components—by five months. While these changes impact Samsung Display’s broader production timeline, they do not appear to affect the MacBook Pro OLED rollout.

What’s Next for MacBook Air

In the meantime, Apple is rumored to be working on an M4 MacBook Air, which could launch as early as this spring. This model will likely serve as an interim upgrade before the transition to advanced display technology in later years.

Apple’s strategy highlights its commitment to balancing innovation with supply chain realities. While OLED MacBook Pros remain on schedule, MacBook Air users will have to wait longer for the technology to trickle down to Apple’s more affordable notebook lineup.