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- Apple’s Pro Display XDR has not been updated since 2019, while competitors continue introducing more advanced alternatives.
- The high price and lack of basic features make it less appealing, especially as OLED and Mini-LED displays gain popularity.
- Apple must release a new version with modern features and a better pricing strategy to stay competitive in the high-end monitor market.
If you want to upgrade your monitor for professional work, Apple has built a reputation for creating premium products, and its high-end monitors are no exception. The Pro Display XDR was once considered the top-tier choice for professionals who needed a high-quality display for photo or video editing or other demanding tasks.
However, this monitor has become outdated compared to competitor’s products as time passes. Newer technologies and more affordable alternatives are now available, making it harder for the Pro Display XDR to stay relevant. If Apple wants to maintain its position in the high-end display market, it needs to release an updated version.
Lack Of Updates And Rising Competition
Apple’s other monitor, Studio Display, launched in 2022 at $1,599 (standard glass), continues to receive updates. According to Mark Gurman, Apple is working on a mini-LED version of the Studio Display, which is expected to launch by 2026.
The problem is that Pro Display XDR hasn’t received any major updates since its release in 2019. Apple has not made significant improvements to the monitor. This focus on other displays while delaying updates for the Pro Display XDR makes it less appealing to professional users.
We are now in an era of rapid technological advancement. For instance, CES 2025 showcased various monitors, setting new trends, with OLED displays becoming more affordable and shifting beyond content creators to professional users.
Another major issue with this monitor is its high price. The base model alone costs $4,999, not including a stand. The Pro Stand costs an additional $999, which is ridiculous to charge for something basic. For those who prefer the nano-texture glass option for better glare reduction, the price can climb to $7,000.
At this price point, users expect all the essential features, but the Pro Display XDR lacks some basic ones common in much cheaper alternatives. For example, it doesn’t have a built-in webcam, speakers, or Apple’s internal chip for features like Center Stage and Spatial Audio.
Better Alternatives At Lower Prices
This year, brands like Asus and LG offer higher-resolution displays at more affordable prices. For instance, LG’s 5K OLED monitor, the world’s highest-resolution display, costs under $1,999. Meanwhile, Asus introduced ProArt, a budget-friendly monitor designed for professionals.
These alternatives provide exceptional quality at a fraction of the cost, making them the preferred choice for professionals who want the best without spending thousands of dollars.
When the Pro Display XDR was first released, it targeted professionals who needed high color accuracy and brightness for creative tasks. However, Apple has largely ignored the monitor since its launch, while the Studio Display continues to receive updates. This raises the question: Is Apple still committed to the high-end monitor market?
While Apple claims to be committed to its pro users, it still shows no sign of an update. Now, professionals who rely on Apple’s high-end monitors face uncertainty. If Apple doesn’t update the Pro Display XDR, they may be forced to switch to other brands.
What It Means For Mac Pro Users
This lack of updates is a significant issue for Mac mini and studio users dependent on Apple’s high-end monitors. Apple is expected to release a new Mac Studio soon. Still, if the Pro Display XDR isn’t updated alongside it, users will be forced to explore other high-end display options that offer advanced display technologies.
One reason for this stagnation could be Apple’s focus on the more affordable Studio Display. The Pro Display XDR’s high price makes it inaccessible to most users, leading Apple to prioritize a monitor that appeals to a broader audience.
However, it is unlikely that Apple will completely abandon its high-end monitor. The company has built its reputation on premium products, and professionals still expect a top-tier Apple display.
However, if Apple wants to retain its professional user base, it must release a new version of the Pro Display XDR with modern features. Additionally, Apple must reconsider its pricing strategy, as many competitors now offer similar or superior displays at a fraction of the cost.
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Heya, I’m Asad (Irre) Kashif! I’ve been writing about anything and everything since as far back as I can remember. Professionally, I started writing five years ago, working both as a ghostwriter and writing under my own name. As a published author and a council member in Orpheus, my journey in the world of writing has been fulfilling and dynamic.
I still cherish the essays I wrote about my favorite PS2 games, and I’m thrilled to have transformed my passion for game journalism into a career. I’m a theory crafter for Genshin Impact (and now Wuthering Waves) and have a deep love for roguelites and roguelikes. While I prefer indie games for their distinct aesthetic and vibes, I do enjoy triple-A games occasionally. I’ve also been playing League since season 6, and I main Akali! I have a keen interest in discovering and playing more obscure games, as well as researching forgotten titles. Additionally, I am a front-end programmer who dabbles a bit in gamedev occasionally.
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