Some Retina iPad Minis Showing Image Retention Issues

[MacRumors]

Some Retina iPad minis are demonstrating image retention issues, as noted by Instapaper creator Marco Arment, who originally developed a grid test to detect the problem in Retina MacBook Pros.

Image retention was first cited as a potential issue last week, when a rumor suggested that burn-in on Sharp's IGZO panels was causing production delays with the Retina mini's display, leading to significant supply constraints that have resulted in a quiet release for the tablet.

While it is unclear how many Retina iPad minis are affected by the issue, several mini owners on Twitter have discovered the problem after running the grid test. It is not known if the image retention is limited to displays from specific manufacturers, as many Retina iPad minis are not experiencing display problems.

An example of image retention after running the grid test, via Twitter​

Displays with image retention are not a new problem for Apple. The original Retina MacBook Pro displays demonstrated severe image persistence problems, with remnants or previously-displayed windows remaining visible on the screen for several minutes. It is important to note, however, that the image retention is temporary and not permanent like the burn-in seen with some plasma displays.

In normal use cases, it is unlikely that the image retention is noticeable, but Retina iPad mini owners experiencing image retention are still within their return windows. Apple has replaced Retina MacBook Pros experiencing display problems, and it is likely that a similar policy will be adopted for Retina iPad minis with image persistence.

In addition to image retention, some users on the MacRumors forums have also noted that their Retina mini screens are not as vibrant as iPad Air, suggesting the Retina iPad mini may have a smaller color gamut.

Apple's Retina iPad mini is currently available from the Apple Online Store beginning at $399. Orders are currently shipping within 1 to 10 days in the United States depending on capacity and cellular capability, and while Apple has not made the mini widely available in its stores, it is also available in many areas via Personal Pickup.

Article Link: Some Retina iPad Minis Showing Image Retention Issues

 

[nepalisherpa]

Uh oh...here we go again!

 

[markyr17]

I thought there was a rumor saying that the iPad mini was using LG panels?

 

[lbjsong]

We need SAMSUNG displays

 

[sransari]

Should stick with samsung displays...could be that samsung is snubbing apple these days.

Seems odd that apple would continue to use LG displays given the history of quality issues. o well.

 

[Chumburro2U]

hmmm

Not good if your wife or girlfriend walks in on you while viewing porn.

 

[jca488]

do you have a link to such "grid test"

 

[macjunkie33]

If my screen doesn't show any symptoms in regular use is it necessary to run this test? So far my Retina Mini has been flawless.

 

[Jack Delgado]

Well, now that you mention this issue of retention, perhaps Apple will explain its will to retain...

 

[iapplelove]

I'm gonna pass on this one.

 

[joelisfar]

Hint: don't stare at the grid test for the 10 minutes or your eyes will develop image retention issues.

 

[chrono1081]

Manufacturing defects happen, especially new products. This is nothing new.

I'm still excited for my iPad mini and if there's an issue it won't surprise me since I'm always an early adopter of tech. All I do is take it back for an exchange or refund. Simple.

 

[KdParker]

We will have to wait and see. I saw all the same issues when the Macbook Pro came out and once mine came....no issues.

 

[dhokes]

do you have a link to such "grid test"

http://www.marco.org/2013/11/14/image-retention-retina-ipad-mini

 

[WestonHarvey1]

If my screen doesn't show any symptoms in regular use is it necessary to run this test? So far my Retina Mini has been flawless.

No. What you perceive in your daily use is the real test. Don't feel you need to return it over an edge case requiring a special test to see. You might end up with a noticeably worse replacement.

 

[OzyOly]

Image retention is the reason why I got rid of my 24" iMac. I've just spent £500 on a iPad mini. If this has image retention it'll be going straight back.

 

[Locoboof]

Hhmm.... Mine has been just fine so far.

 

[sonic2911]

the difference between air and mini retina

 

[mdelvecchio]

could be that samsung is snubbing apple these days.

oh? where do you source that from? or did you just come up with it on your own? hmm, lesse....i think it could be...OBAMA! snubbing apple!

Seems odd that apple would continue to use LG displays given the history of quality issues. o well.

where is it confirmed that apple is using LG?

 

[RoelJuun]

Life is not Good is probably their nickname at Apple.

 

[daneoni]

Lovely

 

[KPOM]

Should stick with samsung displays...could be that samsung is snubbing apple these days.

Seems odd that apple would continue to use LG displays given the history of quality issues. o well.

I doubt Samsung is snubbing Apple. They are still one of Samsung's biggest customers. The rumor is that they are on board for 2014. Apple has been trying to reduce its dependence on a competitor, so that's why they keep giving LG and Sharp second, third, and fourth chances to get things right.

 

[darthraige]

No issues here so far. I love the thing.

 

[PlainviewX]

As the screens are LCD what material are the using between the glass and the display that could be causing this?

 

[qpdbqp]

We need SAMSUNG displays

On the MBPr, the Samsung displays sucked too. Yellowing issues and poor color. I think I'd prefer the better colors and consistency with image retention over the Samsungs.