Mark your calendars for May 7, as Apple is set to host its highly anticipated “Let Loose” launch event at Apple Park in Cupertino, California. The tech giant is widely expected to unveil the next generation of its popular iPad Pro and iPad Air models, alongside a fresh iteration of its Apple Pencil.
According to the official invite, the upcoming iPad Air might don a vibrant array of color options akin to the recently released iMac. Additionally, rumors suggest that a new and improved Apple Pencil is in the works, potentially boasting enhanced precision, lower latency, and increased pressure sensitivity.
Apple CEO Tim Cook hinted at the arrival of a new Apple Pencil in an enigmatic tweet, declaring “Pencil us in for May 7!” The invite graphic also prominently features the iconic stylus.
Industry insiders have been abuzz with speculation regarding the upcoming iPad Pro lineup. Bloomberg has reported that the new models will include a larger 12.9-inch variant, marking the first time an iPad has featured an OLED panel. Under the hood, the iPad Pro series is expected to be powered by the mighty M3 processor, promising unparalleled performance for demanding tasks. Adding further fuel to the rumor mill, some sources claim that Apple may finally include a first-party calculator app with these iPads, breaking a 14-year drought.
Shifting our attention to the iPad Air lineup, expectations point towards the incorporation of the previous-generation M2 chip. Analyst Ross Young has suggested that, similar to the iPad Pro series, the upcoming iPad Air will be available in two sizes: a 12.9-inch and an 11-inch model, both equipped with mini LED screens.
The new Apple Pencil is likely to maintain compatibility with both the iPad Pro and iPad Air. Compared to its predecessor, the Apple Pencil 2, the latest version is rumored to offer heightened precision, lower latency, and increased pressure sensitivity. Notably, Apple has also introduced a budget-friendly Apple Pencil with a USB-C port, compatible with earlier iPad models.
In addition to these core products, Apple is anticipated to unveil a range of first-party accessories. A new Magic Keyboard is said to be in the pipeline, boasting a sturdier build, an enhanced keyboard, and a roomier trackpad. This move aligns with Apple’s strategy of positioning larger iPad models as viable MacBook alternatives.
With the anticipated hardware upgrades, the upcoming iPad Pro and iPad Air models are likely to carry a slightly higher price tag than their predecessors. The 12.9-inch iPad Pro model could potentially become the most expensive iPad that Apple has ever released.
For those in India, the online-only launch event will be streamed live on Apple’s YouTube channel and its official website from 7:30 PM on May 7. Stay tuned for all the latest updates and announcements from Apple’s “Let Loose” extravaganza.
