Photo: Cult of Mac
Apple’s new iPad Pro could launch in early May with updated internals and a refreshed design. All rumors surrounding Apple’s next premium tablet indicate it will feature OLED displays.
The first iPadOS 17.5 beta seems to confirm this, as it contains four new display firmware for unreleased iPad models.
iPadOS 17.5 beta contains new display firmware for unreleased iPads
9to5Mac did some code digging in the recently released iPadOS 17.5 beta and found multiple references to unreleased iPads. Additionally, they found four new display firmware for iPad16,3, iPad16,4, iPad16,5, and iPad16,6. Apparently, these four models are the upcoming iPad Pro, separated by cellular and Wi-Fi options.
Based on the references, the report says Apple’s 2024 iPad Pro lineup will use OLED displays, with different suppliers for the 11-inch and 12.9-inch models.
Apple seemingly had to delay the launch of its new iPad Pro lineup due to the complex OLED panels. The tablets are now apparently scheduled for launch in the second week of May. Apple will soon start shipping marketing materials to its retail stores to prepare for the new iPad’s launch.
The 2024 iPad Pro’s OLED panels should provide higher brightness levels with better colors, contrast, and clarity.
12.9-inch iPad Air might also launch soon
Apple should also unveil a new 12.9-inch iPad Air alongside the OLED iPad Pro. Rumors suggest the OLED iPad Pros will cost significantly more than their predecessors, so a 12.9-inch Air should fill the gap caused by the price hike.
iPadOS 17.5 beta also contains references to an unreleased Apple Pencil. It will seemingly support a new “squeeze” gesture. Previous leaks indicate the next-gen Apple Pencil will have Find My integration, with a patent filing popping up about this way back in May 2023.
In addition to the new iPad Pro, Apple is working on a refresh for the iPad mini and low-cost iPad. The two models could launch towards the end of the year and sport minor internal spec bumps.