Yesterday, Apple launched the new Mac Pro starting at $5,999. Alongside it, Apple also launched two versions of a 32-inch 6K Pro Display XDR, and one of them requires a special cleaning cloth only Apple makes (for now).
As MacRumors reports, a Apple support document confirms that the $5,999 Pro Display XDR with nano-texture glass can't be cleaned in a conventional way. Instead, a dry polishing cloth is supplied with the display and is the only way to "wipe dust or smudges off the screen." Apple also makes it clear you can't use water or any other liquids on the glass to clean it.
If you want to clean the dry polishing cloth, Apple explains a hand wash is required using dish soap and water followed by a thorough rinse and air drying, which takes 24 hours or more.
The reason for the special cleaning procedure is due to the non-standard glass the display uses. Apple etched a texture on to the glass at the nanometer level so as to better scatter light and greatly reduce the glare a completely smooth glass surface can suffer from. Having a pattern etched into the glass, even if it's a nano-texture, will require regular cleaning to stop a build-up of particulates, so the cloth is going to prove extremely important.
Apple prices are never cheap and ultimately Pro Display XDR owners are going to need a replacement cloth, but we don't know how much they will cost. Should we expect the most expensive screen cleaning cloth ever sold? I wouldn't be surprised. I also suspect third-party vendors will be quick to offer cheaper, unofficial dry polishing cloths that won't damage the display if used instead.
If you aren't worried about glare, the cheaper Pro Display XDR uses standard glass and can be cleaned with the supplied polishing cloth or any dry micro-fiber cloth. Don't use any cleaners that contain acetone, though, and never spray cleaner directly on to the glass.