A new entry in a Chinese approval database has given rise to fresh speculation about Apple’s monitor portfolio. A previously unpublished display with the model number A3350 has surfaced and could point to the Apple Studio Display 2. Although Apple is keeping a low profile as usual, the timing and initial technical details suggest an imminent update. Of particular interest are possible improvements to the refresh rate, brightness and internal hardware.
- Unpublished Apple monitor with model number A3350 discovered
- Indications of LCD technology, OLED is considered unlikely
- Rumors speak of ProMotion, HDR and a more powerful chip
Apple Studio Display 2: What the certification entry reveals
The newly surfaced certification entry comes from a Chinese regulatory database and was discovered by industry observers. It names an Apple display with the model number A3350, which has not yet been officially presented. The only thing confirmed is that it is a high-performance LCD panel. At first glance, this information seems unspectacular, but it rules out an important option: An OLED panel is very probably not planned for this model.
This leaves open the question of whether it is actually the Apple Studio Display 2 or a new generation of the Pro Display XDR. The rumors currently point more towards a Studio Display update. The timing also fits: The current Studio Display was unveiled around three months after a similar database entry in March 2022. If Apple follows this pattern, a presentation in spring would be realistic.
It is also interesting to note that an LCD panel does not rule out mini-LED backlighting. Such an upgrade would enable higher peak brightness and significantly better contrast – a step that many users have been expecting since the introduction of mini-LED in MacBooks. Although the certification itself does not confirm this technology, it does not contradict it either. Mini-LED therefore remains one of the most plausible developments for the next Studio Display.
Possible technology upgrades: ProMotion, HDR and new Apple chip
Apart from the certification, rumors have been circulating for some time about the technical features of a possible Apple Studio Display 2, including ProMotion with a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz. Such a feature would make the display much more attractive for smooth UI presentation, video editing and demanding creative workflows. The current Studio Display is clearly limited here at 60 Hz.
HDR support is also considered likely, especially in combination with mini LED backlighting. This could noticeably increase brightness and contrast compared to the current model with a maximum of 600 nits. This would be a relevant step forward for content creation and color-critical work.
Another key issue is the internal hardware. While an A13 Bionic is used in the current Studio Display, an A19 or A19 Pro is assumed for the new model. A more powerful chip could not only improve performance, but also enhance camera and audio functions. Better image processing for video conferencing, optimized center-stage functions or new software-based features that are more closely integrated with macOS are conceivable.
All in all, these rumors paint a coherent picture: Apple could bring the Studio Display more in line with the current Pro features of its Macs without pushing the product into the price region of the Pro Display XDR.
Conclusion
The certification entry for the A3350 model does not yet provide any certainty, but clearly points to a new Apple display. There is much to suggest that it is the Apple Studio Display 2, which is expected to be unveiled in the spring. ProMotion, HDR and a modern Apple chip are considered plausible upgrades. There is no information on the price as yet, but a moderate premium over the current entry-level price of around 1,599 US dollars seems realistic. The official announcement should not be long in coming.
Source: MacRumors
