After a long wait, Apple finally unveiled new iPads, introducing two new Pros, two new Airs, and updated Pencil and Magic Keyboards.
Apple unveiled a new generation of iPads at their “Let Loose” event, marking the first update since 2022. The lineup boasts two iPad Air and two iPad Pro models, all available in 11-inch and 13-inch options.
Key improvements include a repositioned FaceTime camera for better video calls and a cutting-edge display technology for the iPad Pros.
These new Ultra Retina XDR OLED displays offer superior brightness, reaching 1600 nits for HDR and 1000 nits for SDR, rivaling the performance of the desktop Pro XDR Display. The iPad Pro also received a performance boost with the new M4 chip. Prices start at $999.
The previous 10th-gen iPad sees a price reduction to $349 (£349, AU$599). Preorders for the new iPads are currently available, and they will be shipped next week.
Apple’s new Apple Pencil Pro brings improved functionality to artists and note-takers. For $129, it boasts a new sensor with haptic feedback that responds to squeezes and twists.
The twist functionality, called Barrel Roll, lets users adjust brushes on the fly, while squeezing brings up handy context menus. The Pencil also supports Apple’s Find My app and works with the latest iPad Airs and iPad Pros, but not older iPad Pro models.
Apple’s latest iPads mark a significant departure from the 2022 iPad Pro M2. A key feature is the relocated FaceTime camera on the long edge, mirroring the design of the 10th-generation iPad.
This ergonomic shift transforms video calls, mimicking the familiar feel of holding a phone in portrait mode.
This new camera placement also enhances usability for video conferencing, especially when the iPad is propped up in landscape mode, a popular position for presentations or creative work.
The redesigned Pros now have a thinner profile while maintaining similar sizes of 11 and 13 inches, thanks to the introduction of OLED displays. These displays, dubbed Ultra Retina XDR, achieve peak brightness of 1,600 nits in HDR by combining two OLED panels known as Tandem OLED.
Similar to desktop displays, there’s an option for Nano Texture, Apple’s glare-free layer. Prices start at $999 (£999, AU$1,699) for the 11-inch model and $1,399 (£1,299, AU$2,199) for the 13-inch model.
The Pro debuts with the M4 chip, skipping the M3, although it appears to be a speedier version tailored for the new OLED displays.
It retains the 3-nanometer technology of the M3 generation, featuring four performance cores, six efficiency cores, 10 GPU cores, and a new display controller to accommodate the HDR OLED screen. Improved thermals are included as well. Color options remain silver and space black.
The Pro features a new rear camera with 12 megapixels, f1.8 Smart HDR, and lidar, along with an improved TrueTone flash for document photography. The updated flash helps eliminate shadows in documents. The Pro model offers storage options of up to 2TB, and there’s also a 5G option available.
As usual, the new iPad Airs consist mostly of former iPad Pro features. They are available in a redesigned 11-inch size and a new 13-inch size, but they use the older Liquid Retina technology instead of the mini LED found in the Pros.
The 11-inch model features landscape speakers with spatial audio, while the 13-inch model offers extra bass. Both models are equipped with the M2 chip. Additionally, new blue and purple colors have been added to the lineup.
Storage options now include 512GB and 1TB, with prices starting at $599 (£599, AU$999) for the 11-inch model and $799 (£799, AU$1,299) for the 13-inch model.
Apple complements their new iPads with a redesigned Magic Keyboard. While retaining the familiar floating design that allows for various viewing angles, this new iteration boasts several improvements.
Function keys provide familiar shortcuts for users accustomed to traditional keyboards, and a larger trackpad with haptic feedback enhances navigation and gesture control.
This premium accessory starts at $349, making it a valuable addition for those seeking a laptop-like experience with their iPad Pro.
