With no iPads launched in 2023 thus far, Apple may save them for an October occasion – or press launch announcement within the coming weeks alongside some new M3 Macs. Whereas it’s unclear when Apple is unveiling new merchandise, a report by 9to5Mac‘s Filipe Espósito highlights Cupertino’s plans to introduce a brand new base-model iPad, iPad mini, and never one however two iPad Air fashions.
In response to Espósito, moreover the iPad Air fashions recognized as J507 and J508 (Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Mobile variations), Apple can be engaged on bigger variations codenamed J537 and J538. He studies:
(…) Apple has additionally been engaged on different iPads recognized as J537 and J538 which might be primarily based on the iPad Air. For example, the one iPad that at the moment has multiple model is the iPad Professional, because it is available in 11 and 12.9 inches, so there are two fashions for every model.
Particulars are obscure at this level, however this means that Apple could also be contemplating introducing a bigger model of the iPad Air, or a dearer mannequin with higher specs. In fact, Apple’s plans might change and this second model of the brand new iPad Air might by no means see the sunshine of day.
Though these different iPad Air fashions may find yourself being simply an inside take a look at, akin to the additional unreleased iPhone fashions discovered on the tvOS 17 code, if the rumor seems to be correct, I believe a bigger iPad Air may very well be dangerous information for iPad Professional patrons.
Since this mannequin at the moment begins at $599 and the iPad Professional at $799, that signifies that a bigger model of the iPad Air would price at the very least $699, however to not cannibalize its personal market, a pricier Air mannequin may imply that Apple is perhaps planning to lift costs of the OLED iPad Professional.
At present, there’s a $300 distinction between the 11-inch and the 12.9-inch mannequin because of the miniLED show. With the following era anticipated to change to OLED, this might imply that Apple is planning to extend the value of the 11-inch mannequin.
Beforehand, DSCC Ross Younger mentioned OLED prices had been falling, which is why Apple determined to maneuver from LCD to OLED. Nonetheless, then, different studies mentioned Cupertino is paying extra for this panel, which, alongside a brand new M3 processor and some different tweaks, may make Apple cost much more for this iPad Professional.
So, customers who don’t need ProMotion, the newest M-chip, and one of the best cameras may purchase a bigger iPad Air at a greater value, however these wanting the best specs must spend much more to get them.
When you thought the 2024 iPad Professional regarded too good to be true, this is perhaps why.
BGR will hold reporting on the newest Apple rumors.
