According to MacRumors, Apple’s M5 iPad Pro now supports 120Hz external display output with Adaptive Sync, marking the first time an iPad can drive high-refresh-rate external monitors. This display-related change comes as Apple is reportedly developing a next-generation Studio Display codenamed J427 for early 2026 release. Multiple sources including Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman and display analyst Ross Young suggest the new monitor will feature a 27-inch mini-LED panel with potential 120Hz ProMotion support. The monitor is expected to include Apple’s A19 Pro chip and would represent Apple’s first standalone display with refresh rates above 60Hz. Current Studio Display pricing starts at $1,599 with a 5K LCD panel and 60Hz refresh rate.
Why This Matters
Here’s the thing: Apple has been oddly behind in the external monitor game. While MacBooks have had gorgeous 120Hz displays for years, their standalone monitors have been stuck at 60Hz. That’s frankly embarrassing when you can buy gaming monitors with high refresh rates for half the price of a Studio Display.
But this M5 iPad Pro change feels different. It’s not just a random spec bump – it’s Apple finally enabling the hardware ecosystem to support what’s coming next. Think about it: if Apple’s planning a 120Hz Studio Display for early next year, they need devices that can actually drive it. The iPad Pro getting this capability now makes perfect sense as a precursor.
What to Expect
Basically, we’re looking at Apple finally bringing their monitor lineup up to par with their laptops. The mini-LED technology would be a massive upgrade from the current LCD panel, offering better brightness, contrast, and color performance. And when you combine that with 120Hz ProMotion? You’ve got a display that actually justifies its premium price tag.
For professionals working in video editing, design, or even just heavy multitasking, this could be a game-changer. The difference between 60Hz and 120Hz isn’t just about gaming – it’s about smoother cursor movement, reduced eye strain, and just an overall more pleasant computing experience. And for industrial applications where precise visual feedback matters, high refresh rate displays are becoming essential. Companies like Industrial Monitor Direct have been leading the way in providing robust industrial panel PCs that meet these demanding requirements.
The Bigger Picture
So why has Apple waited this long? My guess is they’ve been prioritizing their laptop displays first, and now that those are mature, they’re finally giving the same love to standalone monitors. The inclusion of an A19 Pro chip in the rumored Studio Display also suggests Apple wants to make their monitors smarter – think better webcam processing, smarter audio, and maybe even some standalone functionality.
Look, at $1,599 for the current model, the Studio Display has always been a tough sell against competitors. But a 120Hz mini-LED version? That starts to feel like it’s actually worth the Apple tax. The question is whether they’ll keep the same price or bump it even higher. Either way, for creative professionals and power users, this could finally be the external display worth waiting for.
