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Apple has sparked quite a bit of discussion with the introduction of its new M5 devices—not just because of their performance, but because of one detail that can easily be overlooked. The new M5 iPad Pro supports external displays with a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz. While this initially sounds like a minor technical improvement, it could be a hint of something bigger: a new 120 Hz Apple Studio Display, expected to launch in early 2026.
The current Apple Studio Display is popular, but also controversial. It impresses with excellent image quality, solid build quality, and perfect integration into the Apple ecosystem. However, there is one point that is repeatedly criticized: the maximum refresh rate of just 60 Hz. For many professional users who require smooth motion in video editing or gaming, this is a limitation. The recent announcement surrounding the M5 chip could indicate that Apple will soon address this weakness. The new display support for the iPad Pro is a strong indication that Apple plans to modernize its own display hardware in this area as well.
The new M5 generation
With the M5 chip, Apple has introduced a new generation of its in-house processors. Three devices were equipped with the chip: the M5 iPad Pro, the M5 MacBook Pro, and the M5 Vision Pro. The focus is on greater efficiency, enhanced graphics performance, and new features for professional workflows.
The iPad Pro is particularly interesting. Apple's press release states that the new model can drive external displays at up to 120 Hz. This support is particularly relevant for creative tasks such as video editing, design, or gaming. Additionally, the iPad Pro now offers Adaptive Sync, which dynamically adjusts the refresh rate to the content. This ensures lower latency, smoother motion, and an overall more stable display.
It's no coincidence that Apple is introducing this feature now. Support for 120 Hz and Adaptive-Sync isn't a minor update, but a significant expansion. It paves the way for a product that can truly utilize these capabilities—a new Apple Studio Display.
The current studio display and its limitations
The current Studio Display has been on the market since 2022 and hasn't been modified since then. It features a 5K Retina panel with a resolution of 5120 x 2880 pixels, P3 color gamut, 600 nits of brightness, and an integrated 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera with Center Stage. For many, it's the ideal display for the Mac—but only up to a point.
The 60 Hz limitation is one of the most common criticisms. While iPhones, iPads, and even MacBooks with ProMotion technology have long offered 120 Hz, the Studio Display remains at half that refresh rate. This results in less fluid movements when scrolling, cutting videos, or watching animations – something you wouldn't expect from a premium Apple product.
An upgrade to 120 Hz would therefore be a logical development, especially since displays in this price range from competitors have long offered higher frequencies.
Why 120 Hz is now likely
The introduction of 120 Hz support in the M5 iPad Pro is a notable addition. Apple rarely brings features to a device that aren't also relevant to other products. It's highly likely that Apple has already incorporated this innovation with a view to a new Studio Display.
Macs have supported external monitors with 120 Hz for some time, but there isn't yet a dedicated Apple display with this capability. The M5 iPad Pro could therefore mark the beginning of a new generation of displays. The upcoming Studio Display is expected to feature a higher refresh rate, Adaptive Sync, and possibly other improvements.
It is also conceivable that Apple will combine this step with a general overhaul of the display – for example with better HDR, improved color reproduction or a new display control system using its own chip.
A possible timeline
Rumors suggest the new Apple Studio Display could be released in early 2026. This would fit the usual product cycle, as Apple rarely updates its displays. There were also several years between the 2019 Pro Display XDR and the 2022 Studio Display.
Since the M5 iPad Pro already supports 120 Hz displays, it would be an ideal time to implement the technology in Apple's own monitor line. This way, all devices with the M5 chip could optimally benefit from the new frequency—whether MacBook, iPad, or desktop Mac.
Apple seems to be paving the way for a modern 120 Hz studio display
Evidence of a new Apple Studio Display with 120 Hz is mounting. The current support in the M5 iPad Pro seems too specific to be a coincidence. With the M5 generation, Apple has laid the technical foundation for using external displays with higher refresh rates.
If the next Studio Display does indeed launch in early 2026, it should not only offer smoother motion and lower latency, but also an overall more modern user experience. This would be a crucial upgrade for many professional users—and a logical step for Apple to further strengthen its ecosystem.
The wait for official information continues, but one thing seems clear: Apple is paving the way for a Studio Display that finally operates at 120 Hz—fulfilling the expectations many have had of the company for years. (Image: Apple)
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