Apple to Unveil New iPad Pro Models at "Let Loose" Event on 7 May

Apple has announced its "Let Loose" event, expected to showcase the launch of its next-generation iPad Pro and iPad Air models. The event is scheduled for 7 May at 7 PM PT, which translates to around 7:30 PM India time. This event follows Apple's recent launch of the M3 MacBook Pro line, which also took place at an unusual time during the night.

The new iPad Pro models are anticipated to feature a significant hardware overhaul, the first in six years since the 2018 iPad Pro models. These devices will be powered by Apple's new M3 chipset, manufactured on a 3nm process, and will feature OLED screens and a new keyboard attachment, enhancing the iPad's functionality as a laptop-like device. Additionally, Apple is expected to introduce the 3rd generation Apple Pencil, which will support the Apple Vision Pro.

Alongside the iPad Pro, Apple may also launch a new iPad Air model with the M3 processor, available in a larger 11-inch form factor. A 12.9-inch iPad Air is also rumoured, featuring the mini LED screen technology currently used in the iPad Pro 12.9-inch model.

The larger iPad Pro will reportedly feature a 13-inch OLED screen, while the smaller 11-inch model could also receive an OLED upgrade from its current high refresh rate LCD screen. The shift to OLED screens will enable Apple to make the devices thinner, with the 11-inch model expected to be 5.1mm thick and the 13-inch model potentially measuring 5mm.

In response to user feedback, the selfie camera orientation on the new iPads will move to a landscape mode instead of the traditional portrait orientation. The iPad Air may also receive a redesigned camera bump and could be powered by either the M2 or M3 chipset.

The M3 chipset in the iPad Pro is expected to provide a significant performance boost, supporting ray-traced graphics. Further software updates are likely to be announced at WWDC, with on-device GenAI features expected in iOS 18 and iPadOS.

The updated Magic Keyboard accessory will offer improved sturdiness and a more laptop-like keyboard and trackpad experience, compatible with both iPad Pro and iPad Air models.

This event marks one of the most significant updates to the iPad lineup in recent years, as Apple has not updated the tablet for almost two years.