Apple has already stated that the iPad needs a redesign because sales of the tablet are poor. The goal of the May 7 virtual event, “Let Loose,” is to potentially persuade both new and current iPad users to switch to new models and accessories. This is a difficult challenge that has gotten harder over time. Expectations are already high because this is the first dedicated iPad event that Cupertino has held in a long time. However, holding an event just a few days before its yearly WWDC is unusual for Apple. This is everything Apple might disclose at its much awaited iPad event.
The upscale iPad Pro is probably going to take center stage, and for good reason. With the appropriate peripherals, the iPad Pro seems like a cross between a tablet and a Mac, which is in line with Apple’s long-standing promise that it can replace laptops. Both the 12.9-inch and 11-inch models of the new iPad Pros will see a major overhaul for this year. Rumor has it that both will have OLED screens, which are a significant improvement above LCD screens (the 12.9-inch iPad Pro previously sported a MiniLED display). It is anticipated that the tablets will have a redesigned chassis that would make them slightly lighter and thinner. A landscape-oriented camera on the front of the tablet is one of the additional modifications.
The AI-ready chip, which may eventually unleash AI functions, is the largest update to the iPad Pro, though. The logical processor Apple might choose is the M3 chip, which is already present in the new MacBooks. Nevertheless, a few rumors claim that Apple will unveil the M4 during this event, with the iPad Pro being the first product to utilize the company’s state-of-the-art CPU.
Though Apple is hinting at its AI ambitions at WWDC early next month, the M4 could pave the way for Generative AI. Not much else is known about what the CPU could bring to market. If Apple does really release the M4 chip, this move is mainly intended to counter Microsoft’s impending event, when the company is expected to unveil the new Surface 2-in-1s with Qualcomm’s new AI chips, with a particular emphasis on the hardware and Windows updates.
Two screen sizes for the iPad Air are possible!
Cupertino may release new iPad Air versions in addition to the iPad Pro. But Apple might be able to release the midranger with two distinct screen sizes for the first time. This will bring the iPad Air even closer to the iPad Pro—assuming the rumors about its 12.9-inch screen size come to pass. However, don’t anticipate seeing an OLED screen or an M3 chip in the upcoming iPad Air.
Concentration on accessories in particular
In addition, a new Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro and the Apple Pencil 3—or Pencil Pro, depending on what the firm decides to name it—are anticipated to be released by Apple. The iPad gains a new dimension from accessories, which not only increases the device’s flexibility but also sets it apart from the conventional laptop form factor. It looks that the new Magic Keyboard Pro will have a larger trackpad and be constructed of aluminum. On the other hand, the new Pencil will feature haptic feedback and interchangeable tips for the first time.
What about the recently released software?
Insiders, however, contend that Apple has to completely revamp the iPad’s software in addition to updating the device’s hardware. When the new iPads go on sale, Apple may surprise everyone by introducing new features in the impending iPadOS 17.5 update.
Has Apple finished producing low-cost iPads?
To compete with Chromebooks and low-cost tablets from manufacturers like Samsung, Lenovo, and OnePlus, Apple needs to provide entry-level iPads. In addition to being essential for gaining market share, a low-cost iPad also helps the company expand its presence in the education sector. Though there have been rumors that Apple will discontinue the 9th generation iPad, this may not happen anytime soon. In addition to the 10th generation device, Apple will keep selling the low-cost tablet. Apple is developing a faster-processing iPad mini 7. It most certainly won’t, nevertheless, debut alongside the iPad Pro and iPad Air. Later this year, Apple is likely to concentrate on iPad entry-level models.
