Apple Set to Launch Refreshed iPad Pro & iPad Air Models in May: Report

According to a recent report by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple is gearing up to release updated iPad Pro and iPad Air models in early May. While the company was initially expected to launch these devices in March, it instead focused on introducing a revamped line of MacBook Air notebooks featuring the new M3 processor, which supports ray-traced graphics. Gurman reveals that overseas suppliers have ramped up production for the new iPad devices.

The delay in the launch of the new iPads was attributed to Apple finalising software updates for the devices. The upcoming iPad Pro models are rumoured to be the most significant updates to the iPad in the past five years, particularly from a design perspective.

One of the most notable changes is the transition from miniLED screens, currently used in the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, to OLED screens across the entire lineup. Importantly, this screen technology will extend to both sizes of the iPad Pro as previously the miniLED screen was reserved for the larger 12.9-inch model but the 11-inch model got the older LCD screen technology.

OLED technology, already used in iPhones and Apple Watches, requires a complex manufacturing technique, which has contributed to the extended development time for these new models. The switch to OLED is expected to enable slimmer designs for the iPad Pro models.

In addition to the display upgrades, the new iPad Pro will feature the M3 processor and ship with a redesigned Magic Keyboard, which will convert the iPad into a MacBook-like device A new Apple Pencil is also in the works, with reported support for the Apple Vision Pro.

The iPad Air line is also set to receive an update, with a 12.9-inch screen size being offered for the first time. Furthermore, Apple is likely to introduce generative AI features for iPadOS, which are expected to be announced at WWDC24, starting on June 10 at Apple Park in California.

2023 was the first year in the iPad’s storied history of 14 years, when there was not even a single new model launched by Apple.