Apple’s much-anticipated “Let Loose” event on Tuesday promises to usher in an era of transformation for the iPad. While we expect updates to the iPad Pros and iPad Airs, industry insider Mark Gurman provided key insights into the configuration of the iPad lineup after the event and its ambitious convergence with the MacBook experience. So let’s look at the new iPad Pro that could actually replace notebooks as we know them.
New iPad Pro could be the end of portable computers!
Gurman proposes that the 35-minute presentation will simplify the current iPad lineup and solidify the iPad Pro’s position as a powerful alternative to traditional portable computers. Initially, the new iPad Pros were expected to be updated to the M3 chip. However, Gurman appears to be convinced that they will instead launch with the yet-announced M4 chip.
It seems a bit far-fetched for Apple to debut an entirely new chip during a relatively short event. However, it could be possible that the iPad Pro’s M4 chip is just a slightly tweaked version of the M3 that currently powers MacBooks. If that’s the case, Apple could release more powerful variants of the M4 chip later this year. We’ll just have to wait and see what Apple has in store for us.
Apple is also expected to unveil a redesigned Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro. Gurman previously reported that the new keyboard will have a more durable aluminum frame reminiscent of laptops and a larger trackpad for a more desktop-like workflow. a laptop on the iPad Pro.
Double size strategy for Air
The iPad Air will adopt a dual size strategy, offering 11-inch and 12.9-inch models, directly reflecting the successful configuration options available on the MacBook Air. The anticipated inclusion of OLED displays on the iPad Pro models will also translate into an increase in significant price, especially for the top-of-the-range 12.9-inch version.
This could be another reason why Apple is introducing a 12.9-inch iPad Air, offering the option of a larger form factor at a more affordable price. The chip situation in the iPad Air lineup isn’t all that confusing either, as it’s certainly getting an upgrade to the M2 chip.
According to Gurman’s analysis this is what we can eventually expect after Tuesday:
- iPad (9th generation): The cheapest iPad with a 10.2-inch screen and home button.
- iPad (10th generation): A 10.9-inch screen and no home button for a more modern aesthetic.
- iPad mini (6th generation): 8.3-inch screen, no immediate changes planned.
- iPad Air: With 11 and 12.9 inch models equipped with the M2 chip.
- iPad Pro: 11 and 12.9 inch models with the M4 chip and OLED screens
According to reports, Apple intends to further simplify the product range by 2025. The 9th generation iPad could be discontinued to make way for a more economical 10.9-inch option. However, the iPad mini is also expected to receive a processor update to maintain competitiveness.
