Apple’s highly anticipated ‘Let Loose’ event is poised to bring significant upgrades to its iPad Pro and iPad Air models, marking the end of an almost 18-month hiatus in major iPad releases. Scheduled for May 7, 2024, the online event, led by Apple’s CEO Tim Cook, is expected to last around 30 minutes and is the company’s first major event of the year. Anticipated upgrades include OLED screens for the iPad Pro, a new generation M4 chip, and the introduction of a larger 12.9-inch iPad Air, alongside potential updates to their accessories.
One of the event’s highlights is the introduction of OLED screens for the iPad Pro, aiming to provide richer visuals with enhanced brightness, contrast, and color accuracy. This upgrade is poised to enhance the device’s appeal to creative professionals and media enthusiasts seeking a powerful platform for their work.
Reports suggest that the new iPad Pro models will feature a sleeker design, potentially 20% thinner for the 12.9-inch model and 15% thinner for the 11-inch model. This refinement in design could be attributed to the adoption of OLED displays, although concerns about battery life remain. Additionally, Apple is expected to debut its faster M4 chip with the iPad Pro lineup, promising significant performance and efficiency improvements.
Another anticipated change is the relocation of the front-facing camera on the iPad Pro to the landscape bezel, aiming to provide a more natural experience during video conferencing. Alongside this, Apple might unveil a redesigned Magic Keyboard tailored for the new iPad Pro models, featuring enhancements like an aluminum base for a laptop-like feel and a larger trackpad.
The event might also mark the debut of the long-awaited third-generation Apple Pencil, rumored to feature upgrades such as swappable tips, Find My integration, and additional control options. Price increases for the new iPad Pro models are also expected, with reports suggesting a base price rise of at least $100. Additionally, a new 12.9-inch iPad Air is expected to join the lineup, although it will likely retain LCD display technology and a re positioned front-facing camera similar to the iPad Pro.
While the iPad Pro takes the spotlight with its OLED revolution, updates to the iPad Air lineup are also anticipated. However, the redesigned Magic Keyboard is likely to remain exclusive to the iPad Pro models, maintaining a clear distinction between the two tiers. Moreover, Apple might announce the release date for iPadOS 17.5, with potential enhancements focusing on Find My security and the addition of new games and apps.
Looking ahead, a more comprehensive OS update, potentially iPadOS 18, alongside iOS 18 and other updates, might be unveiled at Apple’s WWDC event scheduled for a month later.
In summary, Apple’s ‘Let Loose’ event promises significant upgrades to its iPad Pro and iPad Air models, including OLED screens, a new generation M4 chip, and the introduction of a larger iPad Air variant. Alongside potential updates to accessories and software, the event heralds an exciting new chapter in Apple’s iPad lineup, catering to the evolving needs of users across various sectors and industries.
