The much-anticipated OLED upgrade for MacBooks seems to be bypassing the MacBook Air, even as far out as 2027. While an OLED MacBook Pro is expected in the next few years, a new report from Korean outlet The Elec suggests the Air will instead receive a different display enhancement: an oxide thin-film transistor (TFT) liquid crystal display (LCD).
This news might disappoint those hoping for a vibrant OLED screen on the Air. The display is often cited as the Air’s weakest point, so any improvement is welcome. However, sticking with LCD technology, even an improved version, feels like a missed opportunity for a truly premium experience.
Cost appears to be the primary factor behind this decision. The MacBook Air’s affordability is a key selling point, and integrating OLED technology would likely push the price up significantly. Apple seems wary of increasing the Air’s price tag, especially after the lukewarm reception to the higher-priced OLED iPad Pro. This suggests a reluctance to pass on the added cost of OLED to consumers, even for a noticeable improvement in display quality.
If the 2027 MacBook Air’s TFT LCD display is genuinely impressive, this compromise might be acceptable. However, there’s a risk that some potential buyers will be turned off by the absence of OLED, especially as competing laptops increasingly adopt the technology.
This situation highlights a potential gap in Apple’s laptop lineup. The Pro models are powerful but bulky and expensive for some users, while the Air remains budget-focused, potentially sacrificing features like a top-tier display. There seems to be a sweet spot for a mid-range MacBook that bridges this divide.
Imagine a MacBook Air-like device unrestricted by a strict price point, focusing instead on premium components and a superior display while retaining the Air’s fanless, lightweight design. This “MacBook Air Pro,” or perhaps a similarly named model, would cater to users who prioritize portability and design but are willing to invest in better specifications. Many Air users who crave a better display would likely embrace such a product.
Unfortunately, there’s no indication that Apple is developing such a device. For now, we can only hope the rumored TFT LCD display on the 2027 MacBook Air delivers a significant improvement over current LCD technology, or that OLED prices drop dramatically in the coming years.
