Something new is coming from Apple with the US technology giant confirming that it’s holding a major launch event next month. Invites to a major showcase have just been released to the world’s media and it appears it will be all about the iPad. Embedded within the email is an illustration of an Apple logo that’s been made using a human hand and an Apple Pencil – that is clearly sending signals that the firm’s tablets are finally getting a refresh.
The big ‘Let loose’ event will get underway from 3pm UK time on Tuesday, May 7 and if you’ve been waiting patiently for news of new iPads it’s well worth tuning in. As fans are probably well aware, Apple didn’t release any new tablets in 2023 which was a surprise as these devices usually get yearly updates. It was the first calendar year since the first iPad in 2010 that Apple didn’t release a new iPad.
Now it seems these hugely popular gadgets are in for a massive refresh.
There’s no official word on what is going to be revealed during the online keynote but rumours suggest that Apple will launch a new iPad Air and an upgrade to the more premium iPad Pro.
These could all get faster M3 processors – that’s the same chip found inside Apple’s latest MacBook laptops. Brighter and sharper displays, much longer battery life plus quicker refilling could all be headline features.
A bunch of improved accessories such as keyboard cases and the Apple Pencil could also be announced. The fact that the invite features Apple’s stylus is a big indication that this popular way of interacting with the screen could soon be upgraded.
Things could get confusing though, as a new Pencil would mean four overall in Apple’s line up. There is currently the first-generation Pencil, the second-generation, and a newer USB-C model. Which one you need depends on the iPad you have.
It’s also possible that Apple could update the iPad mini, a model that hasn’t seen a refresh since 2021 when it got a big redesign. Apple is unlikely to put an M-series chip inside its dinkiest tablet but we hope they update the specs at the very least. A price drop wouldn’t go amiss either given Apple currently charges £569 for a 64GB iPad mini.
A rumour this week, as reported by 9to5Mac, suggested Apple might use the premium mini LED display tech in a new, larger 12.9-inch iPad Air – a size we’ve not seen before on the Air line. This would make the Air even more like the iPad Pro, which is a very expensive slate indeed. We’re looking forward to Apple hopefully clearing up the confusioin around the iPad line up, as it currently sells many different models at different prices and different sizes with compatibility with three different Apple Pencils.
Express.co.uk will be bringing you all the news live from this event so watch this space.
