Apple’s first event of 2024 is just around the corner, slated for May 7, and it’s all about the iPad.
According to Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, Tim Cook will unveil significant upgrades to both the iPad Pro and iPad Air, along with updated versions of their accessories. Here’s what to expect at the event and what might come later:
New iPads
The highlight is a fresh iPad Pro sporting a revamped design and a sharper screen. This iPad will be the first to feature an OLED display.
It’s rumored to come in 11-inch and 12.9-inch sizes and could debut with Apple’s first M4 processors, boosting AI capabilities. These chips are expected to be detailed further in June.
Both iPad Pros are anticipated to slim down, with the larger model becoming about 20% thinner and the smaller one around 15% thinner. The switch to OLED displays will likely drive these changes.
A thinner design might mean less space for the battery, but any impact is expected to be balanced by efficiency gains from the OLED screen.
The iPad Air will also see updates, including a new 12.9-inch option, matching the size of the iPad Pro. Both the new and existing 10.9-inch models are likely to be powered by the M2 chip.
Accessory Updates
Magic Pencil: The revised Pencil may feature haptic feedback, allowing users to feel subtle vibrations during interactions. It might also introduce squeeze gestures for additional functionality, alongside Find My integration.
Magic Keyboard: Expect an improved Magic Keyboard, possibly made from aluminum for durability. The design might make the iPad resemble a laptop more closely, and a larger trackpad is also rumored.
Expected Future Releases
According to him:
- A cheaper version of the 10th-generation iPad is in the works, aiming to bring its price closer to the $329 ninth-generation model. However, this isn’t expected until later in the year.
- An updated iPad mini with a faster processor is also in development but likely won’t be unveiled at this event.
- New AI features for the iPad Pro might be teased, but the full reveal is expected at the Worldwide Developers Conference in June.
- Revamped low-end AirPods are nearing production but won’t launch until the fall, alongside new iPhones.
- Mac updates are not anticipated at this event, though the iPad Pro may feature the M4 chip also destined for Macs later in 2024.
Mark Gurman also highlighted a decline in iPad sales post the pandemic sales surge, particularly evident in the last quarter with a 17% drop. Apple is banking on these new models to rejuvenate consumer interest.
Apple ‘Let Loose’ iPad Event
The event is scheduled for May 7, 2024, starting at 7 AM PT (7:30 PM IST), with an expected duration of around 35 minutes.