Apple’s May Event: What to Expect for the iPad Lineup

Apple has announced its next product showcase for May 7th, a few weeks before the Worldwide Developers Conference kicks off. While Apple remains secretive about its upcoming releases, clues suggest exciting updates on the horizon. Speculations have been rife for months about a refresh of Apple’s iPad lineup in May, and the event teaser featuring an illustration of a hand holding an Apple Pencil adds fuel to the fire.

Apple’s May Event: What to Expect for the iPad Lineup

Here’s what we can anticipate from the upcoming iPad event based on recent reports and leaks:

M3 iPad Pro

It’s been roughly 18 months since Apple last updated its iPad lineup, signalling the need for a refresh. The new iPad Pro models are expected to feature M3 chips, a natural progression from the M2 chipsets powering the current versions. The most significant enhancement is anticipated to be the introduction of OLED displays, promising richer colours and deeper blacks.

OLED panels also enable a slimmer design, potentially reducing the thickness of the iPad Pro models. Leaks suggest the 11-inch model could be 0.8 mm thinner at 5.1 mm, while the 12.9-inch version might slim down by 1.5 mm to 5 mm. Thinner bezels are also rumoured, to enhance the overall aesthetics.

There’s speculation about a glass-backed iPad Pro to facilitate MagSafe charging and relocation of the front-facing camera to the landscape edge, improving usability, particularly for those using a Magic Keyboard.

M2 iPad Air

The long-overdue iPad Air update is expected to feature M2 chips, differentiating it from the Pro models which will continue to use M3 chips. Reports suggest a relocation of the front-facing camera to the landscape edge, aligning with usability improvements seen in the Pro models.

A significant change rumoured for the iPad Air lineup is the introduction of a 12.9-inch model, potentially offering a more affordable large-screen option, albeit straying from the “Air” branding. While previous speculations hinted at a mini-LED display for the 12.9-inch model, recent reports suggest this feature may be delayed.

New Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil

Reports indicate that Apple is working on a revamped Magic Keyboard, primarily for the iPad Pro lineup. It will feature a larger trackpad and a sturdier aluminium build. Additionally, a new iteration of the Apple Pencil is expected to debut. It will possibly incorporate a squeeze gesture for specific actions and Find My support. Compatibility with Vision Pro drawing apps is also rumoured.

What Not to Expect

Despite the anticipation, it’s unlikely we’ll see a new iPad or iPad mini at the upcoming event. Reports suggest that updated models may arrive later in the year, but concrete details remain scarce.

In summary, Apple’s upcoming iPad event promises exciting updates to its tablet lineup. It will include new iPad Pro and iPad Air models, revamped accessories, and potentially groundbreaking features. While some expectations may not materialize immediately, the event sets the stage for Apple’s continued innovation in the tablet market.