The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026 in Las Vegas, USA, is once again the stage for the next leap in display technology. As the event kicks off, LG has taken the wraps off its new flagship gaming monitor series, the UltraGear evo. This launch is particularly intriguing as it showcases technologies that may very well preview the future of Apple's own high-end Studio Display and Pro Display XDR monitors, for which LG is a key panel supplier. The new lineup emphasizes not just raw specs but intelligent enhancement, bringing AI-driven upscaling to the forefront of the monitor wars.
LG's AI-Powered Visual Enhancement Takes Center Stage
Moving beyond simple spec sheets, LG is betting on artificial intelligence to deliver a superior viewing experience. The new UltraGear evo series, specifically the GX9 and GM9 models, incorporate an "AI Super Resolution" feature. This involves a local AI processor that analyzes incoming content in real-time before it hits the panel, intelligently upscaling it to achieve a perceived 5K clarity. This approach is distinct from traditional motion interpolation (MEMC) and represents a significant step in using on-device AI for real-time image quality improvement. LG claims this system works in tandem with AI scene optimization and AI sound tuning to create a more immersive audiovisual experience, marking a shift towards smarter, context-aware displays.
LG UltraGear evo Series Key Specifications:
| Model | Size | Panel Type | Native Resolution | Max Refresh Rate (Native) | Dual Mode Refresh Rate | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GX9 (39GC950B) | 39" | Primary RGB Tandem OLED | 5K2K (5120x2160) | 165Hz | 330Hz (at WFHD) | AI Super Resolution, 1500R Curvature |
| GM9 (27GM950B) | 27" | Mini-LED | 5K (5120x2880) | 165Hz | 330Hz (at QHD) | AI Super Resolution, 2304-zone dimming, 1250 nits peak |
| G9 (52G930B) | 52" | Not Specified (Likely VA/IPS) | 5K2K (5120x2160) | Not Specified | Not Specified | World's largest 5K2K curved monitor, 1000R Curvature |
The UltraGear evo Lineup: OLED, Mini-LED, and Massive Screens
The series comprises three distinct models catering to different user preferences. The star is arguably the 39-inch GX9 (39GC950B), a 5K2K (5120x2160) ultrawide curved OLED monitor. It utilizes a cutting-edge Primary RGB Tandem OLED panel, similar to those found in LG's latest G5 televisions. This four-layer stack (red, blue, green, blue) promises exceptional brightness, color fidelity, and longevity. It offers a dual-mode feature, running at 165Hz at native resolution or boosting to 330Hz at a lower WFHD resolution. For those seeking sheer scale, the 52-inch G9 (52G930B) claims the title of the world's largest 5K2K curved monitor, with a 1000R curvature designed for deep immersion.
The Most Intriguing Model: A Blueprint for Apple?
The 27-inch GM9 (27GM950B) is perhaps the most strategically interesting release. It's a 5K Mini-LED display with 2304 local dimming zones and a peak brightness of 1250 nits. LG emphasizes improvements to minimize the "halo" effect common in Mini-LED displays. Crucially, its 27-inch 5K Mini-LED specification aligns perfectly with widespread rumors about the next-generation Apple Studio Display. Reports suggest the upcoming Studio Display will abandon its current IPS LCD for a 27-inch 5K Mini-LED panel with ProMotion, HDR support, and a more powerful A19 chip, potentially enabling standalone smart features—a direction hinted at by monitors like Xiaomi's Redmi G Pro 27.
Rumored Apple Display Updates (Based on Reports):
- Studio Display 2: Expected shift from 27" IPS LCD to a 27" 5K Mini-LED panel. Anticipated features include ProMotion (up to 120Hz), HDR support, an upgraded A19 chip, enhanced camera (Center Stage), spatial audio speakers, and potential standalone smart home functionalities.
- Pro Display XDR Successor: Potential move to a 32"++ Tandem OLED panel, offering superior contrast and brightness. Expected to inherit the A19 chip and feature set from the new Studio Display, addressing omissions like built-in speakers, microphone, and camera.
The Future of Pro Displays: OLED on the Horizon
While the GM9 may preview a Studio Display update, the GX9's Tandem OLED technology points to the possible future of the professional-grade Pro Display XDR. Apple has been progressively adopting OLED across its Pro devices, from the iPad Pro to anticipated MacBook Pros. The superior contrast and pixel-level control of OLED, especially in a high-brightness Tandem configuration, make it a prime candidate for a future Pro Display XDR successor. This would represent a major shift from the current Mini-LED backlighting and solidify OLED's position as the premium technology for color-critical work.
The Competitive Landscape: AI vs. Immersive 3D
LG's focus on AI upscaling is just one frontier in the evolving monitor market. Its chief rival, Samsung, is pushing a different kind of immersion with its new Odyssey 2026 lineup, headlined by the Odyssey 3D G90HX. Billed as the world's first 6K naked-eye 3D monitor, it uses eye-tracking to adjust visual depth and perspective, creating a glasses-free 3D effect for supported games and converted 2D content. This battle between intelligent image processing (LG) and immersive spatial display (Samsung) highlights the divergent paths OEMs are exploring beyond mere resolution and refresh rate races.
Competitor Spotlight: Samsung Odyssey 3D G90HX
- Claim: World's first 6K naked-eye 3D monitor.
- Panel: 32-inch IPS.
- Modes: 6K @ 165Hz or 3K @ 330Hz.
- Core Tech: Real-time eye-tracking to adjust image depth and perspective for a glasses-free 3D effect.
Conclusion: A Glimpse into Tomorrow's Displays
The LG UltraGear evo launch at CES 2026 does more than introduce new gaming monitors; it offers a tangible preview of the technologies likely to trickle into the broader market, including Apple's revered professional displays. Whether it's the AI-enhanced clarity of the GM9 or the groundbreaking Tandem OLED of the GX9, these innovations set a new benchmark. While Apple's eventual offerings will undoubtedly focus on seamless integration, calibrated accuracy, and minimalist design, the underlying panel technology is being forged by partners like LG. For consumers and professionals alike, the future of displays looks brighter, smarter, and more immersive than ever.