The new iPad Pro does not have the Always-on Display feature

On Tuesday, Apple unveiled its latest generation of iPads at its “Let Loose” event. Showcasing upgrades for iPad Air and iPad Pro along with a range of new accessories. While the company introduced several exciting improvements and features, one notable omission caught the attention of many tech enthusiasts: the lack of the M4 iPad Pro’s Always-on Display (AOD) feature, despite its groundbreaking OLED screen.

The inclusion of an OLED display in the iPad Pro marks an important moment for Apple. Previously, iPads relied on LCD or mini-LED technology. A stark contrast to the OLED panels found in iPhones and Apple Watches for years. This transition promises superior image quality with deeper blacks, higher contrast ratios and potentially improved battery efficiency. However, the excitement surrounding the OLED display was tempered by the lack of an AOD feature. A feature many users have been waiting for with the tech switch.

The new iPad Pro: A look at innovation, but a familiar feature is missing

AOD functionality has become a staple of Samsung’s Galaxy Tab line for quite some time. It allows users to view important information such as time, date, notifications and even custom widgets on a low-power display. Eliminate the need to constantly wake up the device. Given Apple’s integration of AOD into the iPhone and the widespread adoption of OLED technology in the iPad Pro, its absence seems like a missed opportunity.

Pre-launch leaks have fueled speculation that the iPad Pro will feature both an OLED display and AOD functionality. Until one of these predictions materializes, turning off AOD is likely a strategic decision by Apple. Leaks suggesting a drastic drop in refresh rate for AOD functionality may not be in line with Apple’s vision for iPad Pro performance.

The iPhone 14 Pro, for example, uses an LTPO (low-temperature polycrystalline oxide) panel that allows for a minimum refresh rate of 1Hz, enabling the AOD function with minimal power consumption. The new iPad Pro, however, uses a variable refresh rate fixed between 10Hz and 120Hz. Potentially hindering the implementation of an energy-efficient AOD experience.

While the decision to ditch the AOD feature for this iteration of the iPad Pro may raise questions, it doesn’t necessarily rule out its inclusion in future models. Apple’s focus on optimizing battery life and performance may explain the current omission. However, with AOD gaining popularity as a user-friendly feature, its eventual entry into the iPad Pro would not be surprising, especially if Apple can develop a solution that balances functionality with power efficiency.