Reviews of the M4 MacBook Pro largely align with my perspective: while it’s an excellent choice for those upgrading from an Intel MBP, current M-series owners may not find a strong reason to switch.
That said, Apple has discreetly integrated new display technology into the latest MacBook Pro, delivering two significant advantages…
Display technology in MacBook
While MacBook displays still primarily utilize IPS LCD technology, they are of a notably superior quality compared to most laptops.
Apple refers to this advanced technology as miniLED, signifying a substantial enhancement in backlighting through the use of numerous smaller LEDs, enabling improved local brightness and dimming capabilities.
Thus, even though the core technology remains consistent with previous models, there is a marked enhancement in brightness and contrast.
M4 MacBook Pro’s display enhancement
Previous versions of the M-series MacBook Pro employed red KSF phosphor film to allow the miniLED backlighting to achieve a wider color spectrum than typically possible.
While this film is quite effective, a superior option called quantum dot film is now available. Display analyst Ross Young has revealed that Apple has surreptitiously adopted this technology for the M4 MacBook Pro.
Major news for Apple displays: they have embraced quantum dots for the first time. The latest MacBook Pro models (M4) feature a quantum dot (QD) film instead of the red KSF phosphor film.
According to Young, this upgrade affords the latest models two primary benefits when compared to previous iterations.
Increased color range and enhanced motion performance.
One user commented that tests confirmed the improved response rates.
When comparing side-by-side with TestUFO motion tests, the pixel response of the M4 is noticeably faster than that of the M1. You can visit an Apple Store and run testufo.com to see the difference.
Apple’s rationale for the delay
The reason behind Apple’s earlier hesitance, according to Young, was a combination of lower efficiency and the presence of cadmium in earlier generations of quantum dots.
Previously, Apple opted for the KSF solution due to its higher efficiency and absence of cadmium (Cd).
As early as 2015, Apple made its stance clear against using cadmium.
The World Health Organization lists cadmium as a human carcinogen, with significant risks posed during the disposal or recycling of devices containing this metal.
Cadmium impacts the kidneys, skeletal system, and respiratory functions, and is classified as a human carcinogen. Although it typically exists in minimal environmental concentrations, human activities have significantly raised its levels, raising concerns particularly for children during the disposal and recycling of electronics.
Image: Apple
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