Apple's 2024 Roadmap: New iPad and MacBook Air Ahead

Apple is gearing up to introduce fresh iPad and MacBook Air models in 2024, aiming to revive the sales of these key product categories. Mark Gurman from Bloomberg reports that Apple's plans include launching new versions of the iPad Air and iPad Pro, alongside a MacBook Air equipped with a swifter M3 processor. The new iPad Air is expected to debut in two sizes, while the iPad Pro is set to receive an OLED screen upgrade.

Despite Mac and iPad sales constituting 15% of Apple's revenue, these segments have suffered from decreased consumer tech spending. Apple's devices are known for their versatility and longevity, which ironically contributes to slower upgrade cycles. Notably, the iPad line has experienced a particular setback, with no new models introduced in over a year. This lack of updates in 2023 marked the first year without a new iPad release from Apple.

Apple's 2023 releases included several new Mac products, such as the 15-inch MacBook Air with the M2 chip, the M2 Pro and M2 Max MacBook Pro models, and MacBook Pro versions powered by the M3 Pro and M3 Max chips. Additionally, 2023 saw Apple complete its shift away from Intel silicon, launching the M2 Ultra based Mac Studio and Mac Pro.

However, Mac sales have declined by 34% year-on-year, while iPad revenues have fallen by 10%. The iPad's contribution to Apple's revenue has been overshadowed by the growth of Apple's services business. To reinvigorate iPad demand, Apple plans to release new accessories, such as a laptop-converting Magic Keyboard, and introduce software enhancements with iPadOS 17.4. Apple is also set to update macOS to 14.3, with the software release expected between late January and February, although no new hardware is anticipated soon following the recent MacBook Pro launches.

While Apple typically hosts events for Mac and iPad in the first quarter, 2024 might see the company focus on launching the Apple Vision Pro spatial computer. The current iPad Air model will be joined by a larger 12.9-inch variant, both available in WiFi and Cellular versions.

The iPad Pro is poised for a significant redesign, its first since 2018, and is rumored to incorporate the newly launched M3 chip. Additional upgrades may include a third-generation Apple Pencil and a new keyboard accessory. Alongside these developments, Apple is also working on an updated Apple Watch with a blood pressure monitor and plans to refresh the iPad mini. In the latter half of 2024, new iPhone models are expected, and Apple plans to standardize USB Type C connectivity across its entire product lineup.