Apple’s iPad shipments have declined in the past quarter as the company failed to bring new changes. The entire iPad lineup is expected to be upgraded next year, which includes the iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad mini, and the entry-level iPad. Today, industry analyst Mark Gurman reported that Apple is expected to launch two variants of the iPad Air alongside OLED iPad Pro models in the first half of 2024.
Apple plans to launch the new OLED iPad Pro and new iPad Air 5 models in the first half of 2024
Apple’s iPad refresh usually encompasses a chip upgrade, and the same is expected for the iPad Pro and iPad Air lineup. The iPad Pro is expected to feature an M3 chip, the same SoC that powers the base 14-inch MacBook Pro. However, another significant addition to the iPad Pro will be the new OLED display, which has been rumored for a while. For the iPad Air 5, Apple is expected to upgrade the device with an M2 chip. However, the rest of the device is expected to boast the same design.
Today, Mark Gurman from Bloomberg has coined that Apple is expected to launch the OLED iPad Pro and new iPad models in the first half of next year. Due to declining shipments, Apple is expected to launch a bigger version of the iPad Air with a 12.9-inch display. The display size will match the iPad Pro’s, but it will use a standard LCD panel instead of a mini-LED or OLED display. The smaller iPad Air will continue to rock a 10.9-inch panel. The new size option will allow Apple to offer more options to users, which will boost shipment in the following quarters.
As for the iPad Pro, Apple is expected to introduce significant changes in the lineup. We have previously heard that the iPad Pro will feature a redesigned chassis to house a bigger OLED display. The new display will be available on both variants of the iPad Pro but could cost more than the current models. Additionally, the screen size would slightly increase as well. While details are scarce at this point, the company could trim down the bezels a bit for a modern look and feel.
Lastly, the OLED iPad Pro is expected to house Apple’s new M3 chip for better CPU and GPU performance. The M3 chip is based on TSMC’s 3nm architecture, allowing the iPad to consume less power and deliver more battery life. It was reported that Apple plans to raise the iPad Pro’s price by a lot, stretching as high as $1,800. However, how the company will position an iPad that costs more than the base variant of the M3 MacBook Pro remains to be seen.
The company is also expected to launch a refreshed version of the iPad mini and entry-level iPad next year. However, we suspect the upgrades will arrive in the second half of next year. Gurman also stated that the company plans to launch the M3 MacBook Air in March 2024. If Apple plans to host an event in the Springtime, it would be the perfect opportunity to announce the new OLED iPad Pro and iPad Air models.