Apple supplier TSMT has been able to resolve technical issues with its mini-LED display production for upcoming MacBook Pro models. The new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models are expected to launch later this year with new mini-LED XDR displays, similar to the ones that were just introduced in the 12.9-inch iPad Pro.
Supplier fixes issues with mini-LED display production to achieve a yield rate of 95%
Taiwan Surface Mounting Technology (TSMT) will be trialing surface mounting mini-LED chips, integrated circuits, and more on PCBs to use in backlighting for the upcoming MacBook Pro models. As per DigiTimes, the original yield was not good enough but TSMT has changed its PCB and adhesive material which has bumped up the yield rates to 95%.
TSMT is the exclusive provider of SMT services for the recently launched 12.9-inch iPad Pro’s miniLED backlights and is expected to do the same for the two upcoming miniLED-backlit MacBook models, the sources said.
Due to issues with PCBs and adhesive materials, TSMT’s yield rates for surface mounting for miniLED backlighting was not high enough originally, the sources noted. After changing PCB and adhesive material suppliers, TSMT has hiked yield rates to over 95% currently, the sources indicated.
It is no secret that Apple is working on its next-generation 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models. These are expected to feature an iPhone 12-like design language, new mini-LED XDR displays with thinner bezels, powerful new M2 chips, MagSafe charging, HDMI port, and SD card reader. It is expected to be the biggest upgrade to the MacBook Pro ever since the new design language was introduced back in 2016. Customers had established a love-hate relationship with the design due to its thermal issues with Intel chips, Butterfly keyboard, and lack of ports, but Apple is expected to fix the shortcomings of its prosumer-focused MacBook with the new models.
