Apple has released the third developer beta of macOS 26.1, and early findings indicate that the company may be preparing to launch a refreshed Pro Display XDR. As reported by 9to5Mac's Zac Hall and corroborated by MacRumors contributor Aaron Perris, the beta includes references to "Pro Display XDR Camera" and "Pro Display XDR Desk View Camera." These discoveries point towards a long-awaited version of the display equipped with a built-in camera system that supports Centre Stage and Desk View functionality.
Centre Stage, introduced with the iPad Pro and later brought to the Studio Display, automatically adjusts framing during video calls to keep users centred as they move. Desk View, on the other hand, uses ultra-wide camera capabilities to simultaneously show the user's face and a top-down view of their workspace -- a feature that has proven useful for creators, presenters, and professionals during live sessions or demos.
The current Pro Display XDR, which debuted in December 2019, has remained largely unchanged for nearly six years. Despite its $4,999 price tag in the United States, it lacks a built-in camera or speakers -- omissions that have often drawn criticism given the monitor's cost. It offers a 32-inch 6K Retina panel with a 60Hz refresh rate, 1,600 nits peak brightness, one Thunderbolt 3 port, and three USB-C ports. Apple also infamously sold the matching stand separately for $999, further amplifying the monitor's exclusivity.
By contrast, the 27-inch Studio Display launched in March 2022 brought a more integrated experience, complete with speakers, a built-in webcam with Centre Stage support, and a starting price of $1,599 including the stand. The new beta references now suggest that Apple plans to bring similar features to its top-tier professional display, potentially positioning it as a true all-in-one solution for creative professionals who rely on high-quality visuals and video conferencing.
Bloomberg's Mark Gurman recently reported that Apple is developing two new external monitors, likely updates to both the Studio Display and the Pro Display XDR. While there's no confirmed release date, Apple typically pairs hardware announcements with major macOS updates. Given that macOS 26.1 is expected to roll out later this month, the company could reveal the new monitors in the near future.
If the code findings prove accurate, the Pro Display XDR 2 may finally close one of the biggest gaps in Apple's premium hardware ecosystem -- a flagship display that not only excels in image quality but also matches the modern workflow needs of professionals.