M4 MacBook Pro. Image source: Apple
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A display analyst shared that Apple has switched from the traditional KSF red phosphor film to a quantum dot film in the latest MacBook Pro models with the M4.
Quantum dot technology isn’t new, in fact, Apple has been exploring its use in displays since at least 2014. By replacing the phosphor film layer with nanocrystals made of a semiconductor material called quantum dots, displays can display brighter, more vibrant colors.
According to DSCC analyst Ross Young in a post on X, Apple hadn’t previously used quantum film due to the use of the toxic material cadmium. However, that changed with the release of the MacBook Pro with the M4.
The latest cadmium-free quantum films have reportedly shown improved color reproduction and motion performance — even outperforming previous cadmium films. This allowed Apple to move to the improved red phosphorus film KSF.
Big Apple display news: They've adopted quantum dots for the first time. The latest MacBook Pro (M4) models use a quantum dot (QD) film instead of the KSF red phosphor film.
In the past, Apple used the KSF solution due to its better efficiency and lack of cadmium (Cd), but pic.twitter.com/5olq9lEHs9
— Ross Young (@DSCCRoss) November 14, 2024
Generally speaking, users may not notice the difference unless they look at very specific samples designed to highlight the effect. However, the technology makes the display better overall.
Quantum dots are artificial nanocrystals that exhibit quantum mechanical properties. They emit light isotropically after being excited by a backlight.
The effect brings the LED display closer to the color range and performance of OLED. However, that doesn’t mean the MacBook Pro wouldn’t benefit from switching to OLED in a future model.
This means Apple may want to continue using mini-LED backlit panels for a while longer as OLED panel prices continue to fall. Previous rumors have suggested that Apple’s first OLED MacBook Pro will launch in 2026.
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