Apple's upcoming Pro Display XDR 2 is rumored to have a significant upgrade over its predecessor: a built-in camera. This is a notable improvement, as the original Pro Display XDR, priced at $4999, lacked a webcam, forcing users to rely on third-party solutions. The new monitor is expected to address this gap, enhancing the user experience for professionals who require high-quality video conferencing and content creation.
The inclusion of a camera is a strategic move by Apple, as it complements the Studio Display's 12MP ultra-wide Center Stage camera, which is already a feature of the first-generation Pro Display XDR. Center Stage technology, which is also supported on iPhone, iPad, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and iMac, allows for dynamic adjustments to the camera's perspective, ensuring optimal framing for video calls and content creation.
The Pro Display XDR 2 is anticipated to offer additional hardware enhancements, such as 7K resolution, Thunderbolt 4/5 ports, embedded Apple silicon, higher refresh rates, and potential display technology upgrades, including quantum dot films. These features, combined with the built-in camera, make the Pro Display XDR 2 a compelling option for professionals willing to invest in a high-end monitor.
Despite the additional cost, the built-in camera is a valuable addition, especially when compared to the $1600 Studio Display, which also includes a built-in stand. The Pro Display XDR 2's potential to integrate a webcam seamlessly into its design is a significant step forward, addressing a long-standing criticism of the original model. This upgrade is particularly notable given Apple's recent advancements in front-facing camera technology and the competition from LG, which offers a 32-inch monitor with Thunderbolt 5 for just $400 more than the Studio Display.
In summary, the Pro Display XDR 2's inclusion of a built-in camera is a welcome development, addressing a critical gap in the original model's specifications. This upgrade, along with other anticipated hardware enhancements, positions the Pro Display XDR 2 as a powerful tool for professionals seeking a high-performance monitor.
