Not long ago, Apple officially announced that this year’s first Apple press conference forward will be held next Tuesday (May 7). The theme of this conference will be “Flying,” with a primary focus on the iPad. Both the iPad Pro and iPad Air will receive updates, and Apple plans to refresh several of its iPad accessories. As we look ahead, the Apple press conference forward promises exciting announcements for the future of iPads and related products.
On the eve of the Apple press conference forward, TinydealTechnology has compiled comprehensive information from both domestic and international sources, bringing a forward-looking perspective on the products expected at this event. Let’s take a look at the new products that may appear at this Apple press conference forward.
iPad Pro
The new iPad Pro will become the star product of this Apple conference, and the new iPad Pro will become the first iPad with a new OLED screen. The new OLED panel will bring darker black, better contrast, more bright colors, and better energy efficiency.
According to rumors, the new iPad Pro will feature “the best OLED panel on the market.” This screen will offer higher brightness, lower energy consumption, a 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate, and a longer lifespan. The OLED panel’s individually controlled pixels will make high dynamic range content appear clearer and more realistic.
The iPad Pro will be available in 11.1-inch and 12.9-inch sizes. Both models will be thinner, with narrower frames. The 11.1-inch version is expected to drop in thickness from 5.9 mm to 5.1 mm. The 12.9-inch model will shrink from 6.4 mm to 5 mm. Although the tablet’s size will remain roughly the same, its length and width will change slightly.
The new iPad Pro could feature Apple’s next-generation M4 chip, which supports AI. If not, Apple will use the M3 chip found in the iMac and MacBook Air. Either way, this will mark a huge leap forward.
Additionally, the front camera will likely be repositioned to the side of the device. This adjustment will place the camera in the center when the iPad is in horizontal orientation, improving video calls and recordings when using the device with a keyboard.
There are rumors that the new iPad Pro may support Magsafe charging and up to 4TB of storage space, and we may also see a rise in prices. Multiple sources say the new OLED screen will drive up the price of the 2024 iPad Pro. However, it remains to be seen just how much more expensive it will be.
iPad Air
The new iPad Air will be updated with the new iPad Pro. For the first time, Apple splits the Air lineup and launches two models. The first iPad Air will be the successor of the current version, and the size is still 10.9 inches. The second size will reach 12.9 inches, similar to the iPad Pro.
The Apple press conference forward has generated a lot of buzz, as the tech giant is set to unveil new devices, including an updated iPad Air. This new iteration will offer two screen sizes, catering to those who want a larger display. Unlike the iPad Pro, which will sport an OLED screen, the iPad Air will continue using an LCD panel, a choice made for cost considerations. As we approach the Apple press conference forward, it’s clear that these updates will be a significant part of Apple’s strategy to expand its tablet offerings.
It is reported that the design of the new iPad Air will not change. In addition to the newly added larger size version, the appearance of these two models is similar to the iPad Air 4. Aluminum fuselage. However, the new iPad Air will be thicker than the new iPad Pro, and the upper and lower frames will be wider.
The leaked image of the new iPad Air reveals the rear camera module. It features a raised, pill-shaped design similar to the iPhone 16. The front camera’s position may also change. In horizontal mode, it will be placed at the top, ensuring correct positioning for video calls when using the keyboard. Currently, the camera is located at the top in portrait mode.
Although we will not see significant design updates, Apple may launch new color options. The existing model has a series of soft hues, so Apple can adjust the color choice.
Apple Pencil
The iPad Pro and iPad Air will feature a new version of the Apple Pencil, possibly called Apple Pencil 3. It’s unclear whether the design will change. However, this version is expected to be the first with tactile feedback.
The exact use of tactile feedback remains uncertain. However, the code in iOS 17.5 suggests a “pressing” gesture. This gesture could activate various controls, like switching tools and settings within apps.
There are rumors that the new Apple Pencil will feature a magnetic pen tip. However, it’s unclear if this will be an upcoming feature or just an inaccurate rumor. It’s also possible that the Apple Pencil will offer deeper interaction with Vision Pro, potentially working with drawing applications supporting VisionOS. Additionally, the new Apple Pencil may come in black and white, rather than just white.
Miao controller board
Apple plans to make significant changes to the control keyboard. The new version will feature a stronger aluminum frame instead of the current polyurethane material. While the frame and surrounding area will be made of aluminum, the shell will still be constructed from silicone.
The new iPad, equipped with a fantastic keyboard, adopts an aluminum structure. This makes it closer to a MacBook in both appearance and function. The new keyboard also features a larger touchpad, similar in size to the one on a MacBook. This provides a MacBook-like typing experience.
Apple is using new materials for the control keyboard, which may make it more expensive. The current 11-inch version starts at $299 (2399 yuan). The new control keyboard should be compatible with both the upcoming iPad Air and iPad Pro. Their sizes are similar, with the iPad Pro measuring 11.1 and 12.9 inches and the iPad Air at 10.9 and 12.9 inches.
Other accessories
In addition to the iPad-related products mentioned above, Apple will also update its Apple Watch straps, iPhone cases, and iPad cases. New color options will be introduced, including fresh summer shades. Additionally, Apple will need to update its iPad shell to match the new design.
Vision Pro
Rumors suggest that Apple plans to promote Vision Pro in more countries before WWDC. There isn’t much time left until WWDC. As part of the May 7 event, Apple may bring Vision Pro to the UK, Canada, China, and other countries.