While the latest 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2021 may have a new mini LED display, other iPad models have used essentially the same LCD panel since its launch. Thankfully, that is about to change.

This is according to a new report from The Elec, which claims that Apple is preparing to sell an OLED iPad as early as next year. The magazine does not specify the source of the information, but this is something we have heard before, and no official information has been obtained.

A Korean news site reported that Apple may release an OLED iPad with a 10.68-inch screen within the next year, with 11-inch and 12.9-inch OLED panels said to be available in 2023.

It is not clear which iPads could feature OLED displays, but based on screen size, both the iPad Air and iPad Pro could be candidates, although it makes sense for the iPad Air and 11-inch iPad Pro, It is not entirely clear why Apple would offer an OLED 12.9-inch iPad Pro when the mini LED model is already on sale.

Interestingly, the report also notes that the 10.68-inch model will rely on a rigid OLED display, and future models may utilize a flexible glass display instead. This is especially since iPhones have been using flexible OLED panels since the launch of the iPhone X.

Apple appears to be quite cautious about upgrading its devices from LCD to OLED; while OLED panels have been used for several generations in the Apple Watch and flagship iPhone, Apple has not released an OLED iPad or MacBooks, it has not released a single MacBook.

The use of mini-LEDs in the latest iPad Pro was seen as a sign that Apple might avoid OLED iPads altogether. However, because mini-LEDs are still a very new technology, they are expensive to produce and not ideal for an affordable product like the iPad Air.

OLEDs have the advantage that individual pixels light up, while mini-LEDs rely on small clusters of light. Nevertheless, OLEDs are prone to burnout if care is not taken and do not offer the best performance at different angles. Mini LEDs, on the other hand, have high maximum brightness and excellent color and contrast.

Apple may intend to offer multiple display variations on the iPad Pro in the future. That way, people can enjoy the upgrades that OLED displays offer, while those willing to pay for the expensive performance of mini-LEDs can do so.

It is not clear how such a decision would affect the future MacBook Pro, which is rumored to feature a mini-LED display later this year.

Needless to say, this is not a confirmation that an OLED iPad will appear. However, the fact that this is (at least) the third time we have heard this story from various reports and rumors means that it is becoming increasingly likely.