Apple has strategic plans to introduce updated iterations of the iPad Air and iPad Pro in 2024, as outlined by Ming-Chi Kuo, an analyst affiliated with TF Securities. In a recent Medium blog post, Kuo asserts that Apple is poised to unveil a novel 12.9-inch iPad Air variant alongside the conventional 10.9-inch model.
The revamped iPad Pro models are anticipated to incorporate Apple’s latest M3 chip and showcase state-of-the-art OLED displays, signalling a significant technological leap. There are also speculations about potential releases of new iPad mini and 11th-generation iPad models in the coming year.
The Upgraded 2024 iPad Air
As per Kuo’s projections, Apple’s plan includes the launch of a 10.9-inch iPad Air model in the first quarter of 2024, accompanied by the introduction of a novel 12.9-inch variant. This larger iPad Air will boast the same Liquid Retina display featured in the smaller iPad Air but is expected to deliver enhanced performance owing to the utilization of an oxide backplane, mirroring the technology present in Apple’s current-generation iPad Pro models equipped with Mini-LED displays.
Further insights from the analysts indicate that Apple is gearing up to release two fresh iPad Pro models, abandoning the Mini-LED displays in favor of OLED screens, slated for arrival between the first and second quarters of 2024. These models are anticipated to exhibit a redesigned form factor and will be powered by Apple’s advanced M3 chip, promising superior display quality and enhanced power efficiency compared to the existing iPad Pro lineup. Notably, market research forecasts have hinted at a marginally larger 13-inch display for the larger iPad Pro model.
Kuo’s predictions extend to Apple shipping an estimated 6 to 8 million iPad Pro units in 2024. However, he suggests that the forecasted lower shipment numbers could be influenced by a potential price increase attributed to the integration of OLED screens. Additionally, the larger iPad Pro model may face competition from Apple’s purported 12.9-inch iPad Air model, further impacting shipment dynamics.
Looking ahead to the latter part of 2024, Apple is speculated to unveil a fresh iPad mini model. Simultaneously, the company is expected to introduce a refreshed 11th-generation iPad, while the production phase-out of the 9th Gen model — notable for being the last to feature a Lightning port — is projected to conclude by the year’s end, according to Kuo’s insights.
