According to media reports, the new iPad from Apple is expected to be launched in early May. This time, the Pro and Air series will receive major updates, with the iPad Pro models featuring the new M3 chip, and the iPad Air will come with a larger screen
Apple Product Timeline: A new iPad will be released in early May to boost tablet sales. The Worldwide Developers Conference will take place on June 10th, showcasing AI strategies and new technologies.
On March 28th, media reports cited sources saying that Apple plans to officially release upgraded versions of the new iPad Pro and iPad Air in early May, with the Pro model featuring a clearer OLED display and the iPad Air introducing a 12.9-inch screen option for the first time. In addition, Apple's overseas suppliers have accelerated production of the highly anticipated new iPad before the May release.
Since the last iPad update, there has been about an 18-month gap without any new iPad products, leading to a soft demand for tablets overall in the market. Although iPad sales increased during the pandemic, sales of iPads have declined in Apple's past two fiscal years (each fiscal year ending in September). During the recent holiday season, when iPads are usually popular gifts, sales saw a 25% year-on-year decline.
This update and upgrade of the iPad may end the history of no new models being released for 18 months. Furthermore, Apple hopes that the new iPads with faster processors and new accessories can reignite interest in tablets in the market, thereby boosting tablet sales.
Pro and Air Series Receive Major Updates: Equipped with M3 Chip, Larger Screens
It is reported that the new iPad Pro models will include four models: J717, J718, J720, and J721. These new models will be equipped with the new M3 chip and will support the redesigned Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil. This update marks the first comprehensive redesign of the series since 2018.
Meanwhile, the last update for the iPad Air was in 2022, when it was equipped with the M1 chip. The new iPad Air is said to come with a new processor. Additionally, the new iPad Air will offer a 12.9-inch screen size option, allowing consumers to get a large-screen iPad at a lower price compared to the higher-end Pro series Currently, due to the higher performance offered by the Pro series, the starting price of the iPad Air is $599, while the Pro series is priced $200 higher than the Air series.
Apple originally planned to release a new iPad at the end of March or early April, but due to the need to perfect the device's software and the complex new manufacturing technology required for the latest iPad screen, these factors have led to a delay in the release.
Apple is planning to launch new products in early May, a month before Apple's 35th Worldwide Developers Conference. On June 10th, Apple plans to kick off a week-long Worldwide Developers Conference, where they are expected to announce Apple's AI strategy and software updates for iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Mac, and Vision Pro headsets.
