If you still use an Intel-powered Mac, don’t bother buying one of the new Apple Studio Display or Studio Display XDR models Apple unveiled today.
Apple has released a list of Macs that are compatible with the new displays (shared by MacRumors), and Intel Macs are not on the list. While the displays are compatible with several Mac models dating back to 2020, all of the listed Macs are powered by M-Series Apple Silicon.
Apple began phasing out Intel Macs back in 2020, when it released the first round of Macs with Apple Silicon. Intel chips were dropped completely from the MacBook Air in 2020, and from the MacBook Pro lineup in 2021, with other Macs soon to follow. An Intel Mac hasn’t been available for nearly three years. The Mac Pro was the last Intel Mac sold, and that model was discontinued in 2023.
The new Studio Display boasts a 12MP Center Stage camera, providing improved image quality, as well as support for Desk View; a studio-quality three-microphone array; and an immersive six-speaker sound system with Spatial Audio. The display also now includes Thunderbolt 5 connectivity.
The all-new Studio Display XDR is a 27-inch 5K Retina XDR display featuring an advanced mini-LED backlight with over 2,000 local dimming zones, up to 1000 nits of SDR brightness, and 2000 nits of peak HDR brightness, as well as a wider color gamut. Boasting a 120Hz refresh rate, the Studio Display XDR’s Adaptive Sync dynamically adjusts frame rates for content like video playback or graphically intense games. Studio Display XDR is equipped with the same advanced camera and audio system as the Studio Display, as well as Thunderbolt 5 connectivity.
Both new displays can be pre-ordered starting tomorrow, March 4 at 9:15 a.m. Eastern Time, with availability beginning Wednesday, March 11.