Apple’s tablet ecosystem is set for a shakeup in 2024, with rumors pointing towards a larger iPad Air and a long-awaited design overhaul for the iPad Pro. While the current iPad Air has maintained its current design for two generations, whispers of a 12.9-inch model have piqued the interest of those seeking a powerful tablet without the Pro’s premium price tag.
Based on shared renders by 91mobiles, the 12.9-inch iPad Air appears to retain the sleek aesthetic of its smaller sibling. We can expect the signature all-screen display, Touch ID button on top, and flat edges to grace the larger model as well. The speaker grilles and side switch remain in their familiar positions, while the rear camera might undergo a subtle change with the addition of a border around the lens and flash. This is a minor departure from the current iPad Air’s naked camera sensor, but it could offer a more polished look.
The 12.9-inch iPad Air is rumored to ditch the A15 Bionic chip in favor of the M2, the same chip that powers the current iPad Pro lineup. This upgrade promises a significant performance boost, making the larger Air ideal for demanding tasks like multitasking, video editing, and gaming.
While the iPad Air receives a size bump, the iPad Pro is set for a more transformative upgrade. Reports suggest that both the 11-inch and 13-inch models will boast OLED displays, marking a significant departure from the current Liquid Retina LCD panels. OLED technology offers superior contrast, deeper blacks, and vibrant colors, promising an immersive visual experience for watching movies, editing photos, or playing games.
Industry giants Samsung Display and LG Display are reportedly responsible for mass-producing the iPad Pro’s OLED panels, with Samsung handling the bulk of 11-inch orders and LG focusing on the 13-inch size. However, Samsung is also expected to eventually manufacture OLED panels for the larger iPad Pro, likely in a future iteration.
Apple’s tablet refresh doesn’t stop there. Rumors suggest minor updates for the entry-level iPad and iPad mini later in the year, potentially addressing areas like performance and camera capabilities.
Overall, 2024 promises to be a big year for Apple’s tablet lineup. The 12.9-inch iPad Air offers a compelling option for those seeking a powerful and portable tablet experience, while the OLED-equipped iPad Pro represents a significant leap forward in display technology. With a revamped Magic Keyboard also rumored to be in the works, Apple seems intent on solidifying its dominance in the tablet market.
