According to Macworld, Apple is working on two upcoming Studio Display variants, internally codenamed J427 and J527, each with distinct features and targeted launch windows.
The premium J527 version is rumored to boast enhanced audio with drivers approaching HomePod-level performance, upgraded connectivity options, and a bigger 32-inch panel.
Both models are anticipated to deliver 120Hz ProMotion refresh rates and HDR capabilities.
Filipe Esposito for Macworld:
The existence of both J427 and J527 in Apple’s internal files strongly suggests that the next Studio Display may come in two configurations. While both appear to share the same core display capabilities, there are some interesting differences referenced in the firmware.
Specifically, each monitor has different audio drivers, implying that the speakers are different. The exact differences are unclear, but Apple may have decided to include better speakers in a higher-end version of its monitor. The current Studio Display includes a high-fidelity six-speaker system with force-cancelling woofers and support for spatial audio, the same found in the MacBook Pro, but a high-end system could support audio closer to HomePod.
Another difference we noticed is that the J527 version supports more I/O controllers than the J427. The current Studio Display has three USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 ports and one Thunderbolt 3 port. Presumably, the higher-end Studio Display will have more advanced ports, while the base model will keep the current ones…
The higher-end features would likely be part of a model with a larger screen as well. It would be odd to sell two 27-inch displays with slightly different speakers and ports, but a 32-inch model that also has upgraded audio and expansion makes more sense.
MacDailyNews Take: We’d love to see both of these debut during next week’s Apple unveilingpalooza!
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