Newly leaked CAD renders, shared by 91Mobiles, purportedly unveil the design of Apple’s forthcoming 12.9-inch iPad Air model, providing a glimpse into the device’s aesthetic elements. In line with expectations, these renders showcase an overall appearance reminiscent of the Air’s design seen in the fourth- and fifth-generation models, albeit scaled up to accommodate a larger 12.9-inch display.
The Leaked iPad Air 12.9-Inch
A notable departure in the design is observed in the rear camera unit, which now features a redesigned, elongated pill-shaped protrusion, deviating from the single, round cutout seen in the current iPad Air. This fresh design bears a resemblance to the rear camera unit found on the iPhone X and iPhone XS.
Turning attention to the tablet’s front, the iPad Air appears strikingly similar to the existing 12.9-inch iPad Pro, with the exception of noticeably thicker bezels. This mirrors the design choice made in the 10.9-inch iPad Air, where thicker borders surround the display compared to the 11-inch iPad Pro.
It is anticipated that this device will cater to users seeking a larger tablet than the current 10.9-inch iPad Air but without the need for the advanced features present in the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, such as ProMotion technology or a LiDAR scanner. This approach aligns with Apple‘s strategy, seen in products like the 13.6- and 15.3-inch MacBook Air, as well as the 6.1-inch iPhone 15 and 6.7-inch iPhone 15 Plus.
Addressing the device’s internal specifications, 91Mobiles reiterates reports suggesting that the next-generation iPad Air will be equipped with the M2 chip, showcasing Apple’s commitment to incorporating cutting-edge technology. With rumors pointing toward production commencement in the first quarter of 2024, there are indications that the device is already in the manufacturing pipeline. The anticipated launch timeframe is slated for “early” this year, with March being a likely candidate for the unveiling.
