Apple is expected to significantly update its standalone desktop monitor with the next-generation Studio Display, according to recent reports based on leaked internal code. The new model, commonly referred to as the Studio Display 2, is said to introduce several long-awaited features that are missing from the current version, despite becoming standard across many modern displays.
The reported upgrades suggest Apple is preparing a more capable screen aimed at professional users and those seeking a smoother, more immersive visual experience. While Apple has not confirmed any details, the information suggests changes to refresh rate, display technology, and internal hardware, marking the most notable evolution of the Studio Display since its introduction.
Higher refresh rates and HDR finally arrive
One of the most notable expected upgrades is support for variable refresh rates of up to 120Hz. This would be a major improvement over the existing Studio Display, which is limited to a 60Hz refresh rate. A higher refresh rate allows on-screen motion to appear smoother, particularly when scrolling through content, editing video timelines, or using creative software that benefits from more fluid visuals.
The reported support for variable refresh rates also suggests the display may be able to dynamically adjust performance based on what is displayed on screen. This can help balance smoothness and power efficiency, a feature that Apple already offers on several of its devices under its ProMotion branding.
In addition to smoother motion, the Studio Display 2 is expected to support HDR content. High dynamic range allows for brighter highlights, deeper shadows, and a wider range of colours, resulting in images and videos that look closer to real life. The lack of HDR support on the current Studio Display has been a point of criticism, especially given the price and Apple’s strong emphasis on display quality across its wider product range.
HDR and high refresh rates are already common on mid-range and high-end smartphones and tablets, including Apple’s own iPhone and iPad Pro models. Their absence from the current Studio Display has often been seen as an unusual omission, particularly for a monitor marketed towards creative professionals.
Possible move to mini-LED technology
The addition of HDR support has led to speculation that Apple may also be upgrading the underlying display panel. Industry analyst Ross Young, chief executive of Display Supply Chain Consultants, has previously suggested that Apple could move away from the existing LCD technology and adopt mini-LED instead.
Mini-LED displays use thousands of smaller backlights to improve brightness and contrast control. This can result in deeper blacks, brighter highlights, and reduced halo effects compared with traditional LCD panels. Apple already uses mini-LED technology in several products, including higher-end MacBook Pro models and the iPad Pro.
If Apple does make this shift, it would represent a meaningful improvement in overall image quality for the Studio Display line. Deeper contrast ratios and more precise lighting control would be particularly beneficial for photographers, video editors, and designers who rely on consistent, precise visuals.
However, moving to mini-LED could also affect pricing. Apple’s mini-LED devices typically sit at the higher end of its product range, and a more advanced panel could push the Studio Display further into premium territory. At this stage, there is no indication of how Apple plans to position the Studio Display 2 in terms of cost or whether it will replace the current model or sit alongside it.
New chip and launch timeline
Leaked Apple code has reportedly revealed an internal identifier, “J527”, which is believed to be linked to the Studio Display 2. This identifier suggests Apple’s upcoming A19 chip may power the monitor. The current Studio Display uses the A13 Bionic chip, which handles features such as the built-in camera, audio processing, and Centre Stage support.
There is also some uncertainty around which version of the chip Apple will choose. Previous reporting from MacRumours has suggested that the more powerful A19 Pro chip could be used instead. If true, this would indicate that Apple plans to expand the display’s on-device processing capabilities, potentially improving camera performance, audio quality, or future software features.
The original Studio Display was unveiled in 2022 as a companion to Apple’s Mac Studio. It features a 27-inch 5K Retina display with 600 nits of brightness, a 12-megapixel front-facing camera, and a six-speaker sound system. While praised for its sharp resolution and design, it has also faced criticism for its webcam quality and limited display features compared with competing professional monitors.
The Studio Display 2 is currently tipped to launch in spring 2026. This would place it roughly four years after the original model, suggesting Apple is taking a measured approach rather than updating the product on a rapid cycle. A later launch would also allow Apple to align the display with future Mac hardware and software updates.
Until Apple makes an official announcement, all details remain unconfirmed. However, the reported combination of a higher refresh rate, HDR support, and potential mini-LED technology suggests Apple is aiming to address many of the current Studio Display’s shortcomings. If these upgrades materialise, the Studio Display 2 could become a more compelling option for professionals seeking a high-quality external monitor within Apple’s ecosystem.
