Apple has been relatively quiet since announcing the iPhone 15 series and new Apple Watches in September. However, there are rumors that the new iPad may be announced soon. In fact, these could be announced by Apple tomorrow, October 17th.
Since the announcement will almost certainly be made via an online press release, and not a full press event, you might think that these updates would not be significant. Still, the news couldn’t come at a better time for those planning to buy an iPad, as the holiday shopping season is fast approaching.
Before you get too excited, be aware that even if announcements are made soon, the new tablets may not be released this month.
What is the news?
According to weekend reports Supercharged and 9to5Mac, Apple plans to introduce updated versions of the iPad mini, iPad Air, and the entry-level iPad this week. Bloomberg Apple expert Mark Gurman also predicts the announcement of new tablets in the near future. However, Gurman said on X (formerly Twitter) He doesn’t believe there will be any significant updates any time soon. On Bloomberg he further said that new iPads are not expected to be released this month.
I want to believe that all of the above is true, and that the new iPad is going to be announced, but likely won’t be released until November or December. All three future iPad updates could prove exciting, even if Apple doesn’t think they warrant a press event.
ipad mini 7
Apple has released six iPad mini models over the past few years, which is hard to believe. Despite often matching the internals of the existing iPad Air, Apple has shown little love for the smaller tablet. However, just when you think the device is forgotten, Apple releases a new model which it heavily promotes for at least a few weeks.
The sixth generation iPad mini is equipped with the A15 Bionic chip. Despite being an older model, the iPad mini still boasts a more powerful chip than the 10th-generation iPad, which was released a year later with an A14 Bionic chip. The iPad Mini generally has better internal features than the budget iPad. And despite its smaller display, it costs more.
In comparison, the iPad Air has an M1 chip, while the M2 chip powers the latest iPad Pro models.
Rumors suggest that the seventh-generation iPad Mini will have an A16 Bionic chip, which is slightly better than the A15 Bionic chip. It may also include a new display controller to fix the jelly scrolling issue that has affected some iPad mini 6 users.
ipad air 6
Information about the upcoming sixth iPad Air and 11th iPad is scarce. However, the first model will probably feature an M2 chip as the current model features an M1. We can also take cues from the 11-inch iPad Pro (4th generation) to get an idea of what features the next iPad Air will (and won’t) have.
Updated features of the new iPad Air may include ProMotion 120Hz technology for the display and a 10-core GPU that is powered by the M2 chip. There’s also a USB-C connector with Thunderbolt/USB 4 support and the possibility of upgrading to Wi-Fi 6 with speeds up to 2.4 Gbps.
Apple will likely continue to differentiate the iPad Air from the iPad Pro with respect to the camera system and certification. For example, the less expensive iPad Air is unlikely to have an ultrawide camera or offer Face ID. Storage beyond 256GB is also possibly out of reach.
Apple has a history of introducing new and innovative colors for the iPad Air. It may continue this trend with the next iPad Air release. The last two generations of the iPad Air were offered in five colors, so speculation is that another five are on the way.
11th generation ipad
Finally, let’s talk about the upcoming next-generation iPad. The current model was last updated a year ago and features the A14 Bionic chip. The latest version is expected to have minor updates including the A15 Bionic chip. Like its predecessor, the 11th-generation iPad should still have a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display and Touch ID integrated into the top button.
If Apple follows past practice, the arrival of the 11th generation iPad should mean iPad (10th generation) will be available at a lower price. Currently, the price of iPad (9th generation) starts at $329, while the price of iPad (10th generation) starts at $429.
What about the iPad Pro?
If you usually buy iPad Pro models, you may have to wait another year for the latest update. However, according to rumors, it will be worth the wait.
Reportedly, the upcoming iPad Pro lineup, which is expected to launch sometime next year, will feature an OLED screen for the first time and be powered by the new M3 chip. The largest iPad Pro could have a 13-inch display, slightly larger than the current 12.9-inch. Both models may also have a new glass body.
There were 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pros Updated a year ago.
Which is the most exciting 2023 iPad?
Although I haven’t personally used the iPad Mini, I know several friends who have been eagerly awaiting the release of the new model. Of the three tablets being announced this week, I believe the iPad mini 7 will get the most attention.
The regular iPad will also be in the spotlight, especially for the general public. During the holiday shopping season, Apple will likely offer the biggest discount on the regular iPad, even if it’s only $25 to $50 off.
The iPad Air, which offers a good balance between the regular iPad and the more expensive iPad Pro, will also have its supporters. Since there is no product red iPhone this year, that color will likely appear on the new iPad Air. Wouldn’t a red iPad look good? Indeed, it will happen.
We should know soon. If Apple announces a tablet this week, it should arrive in a matter of hours. stay tuned.