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In the midst of the buzz surrounding the imminent iPhone 15 and next year’s MacBook Pros, the iPad, particularly the iPad Pro, seems to have been left out of the conversation. However, the coming year could see the tablet receive significant upgrades, bringing it up to par with its iPhone and MacBook counterparts.
Mark Gurman, Bloomberg’s resident Apple expert, recently revealed some intriguing information about Apple’s tablet plans. His insider sources suggest that four new iPad Pro models are in the pipeline for next year, all equipped with Apple’s proprietary M3 silicon chip. These models, codenamed J717, J718, J720, and J720, are expected to range in size from 11 to 13 inches, slightly larger than the current 12.9-inch iPad Pro. The iPads are also likely to transition to OLED screens, a feature iPhones have incorporated since the iPhone X.
This change would make the devices lighter and more power-efficient. While an OLED MacBook Pro might still be two years away, the iPad could see this upgrade in just a year. If Apple does decide to revamp its iPad lineup, it’s likely that they will incorporate some of the innovative features from its iPhone range. Over the past few years, Apple has made significant improvements to its screens, none of which have been implemented in the iPad’s annual releases. The iPhone 14, for instance, replaced the notch with a Dynamic Island.
With the iPhone 15 expected to be unveiled in about two weeks, Apple is anticipated to extend the device’s organic displays to the edges by reducing the bezels. Apple’s Magic Keyboard might also see some improvements. Gurman suggests that Apple will introduce a redesigned folded keypad that can transform an iPad into a device resembling a laptop. While details are sparse, the accessory is expected to be larger and feature a bigger trackpad. This would make the tablet look even more like a laptop. Recent patent filings from Apple indicate features that would make its Magic Keyboard similar to Microsoft’s Surface Pro, possibly providing users with more viewing angles for the attached keyboard. Despite the solid iteration of last year’s M1-powered iPad Air, which did not come with a price increase, Apple’s tablets, particularly the more affordable ones, have seen only moderate changes.
This has resulted in underwhelming sales for its 10th generation iPad line. According to analyst firm IDC, Apple’s tablet shipments declined by nearly 17% year-over-year, mirroring the trend in the broader tablet market. Apple’s product shipments have been significantly affected in 2023, and the company is expected to reduce the number of iPhones it produces this year, reflecting a global tech sales slowdown. However, these potential upgrades could shift some attention back to Apple’s tablet business. Compared to its iPhone, Mac, wearables, and subscription-based services, the iPad generates the least revenue for the company each year.
In the past quarter, iPad sales trailed laptop and computer sales by nearly $1.1 billion, both of which are overshadowed by total iPhone sales. For those interested in more consumer electronics recommendations from Gizmodo, they offer guides to the best phones, laptops, cameras, televisions, printers, and tablets. They also provide insights into the upcoming iPhone 15 and daily deals from their partner, The Inventory.
