Apple started late and has been a bit slow when it comes to new iPad launches. The last iPad launch took place in October last year when it released its new iPad Pro variants powered by the then new M2 processor and a new 10th generation iPad with a new design and keyboard accessory. While we’ve heard rumors about some new and interesting iPad models, there’s finally news confirming that they are indeed being tested and should hit the market soon.
9to5mac claims according to its sources that everything is on track and that Apple will announce some new iPad models soon. This would include a new iPad Mini (or Mini 7), which will replace the currently available iPad Mini 2021. According to the source, it will retain the design of the older model and only offer a spec upgrade. However, when Apple plans to release it, it’s still strangely a difficult question to answer. The last Mini (review) was released in September 2021 and got an upgraded design with thinner bezels, the A15 Bionic chip, 5G connectivity and more.
Next in line is the new 11th generation iPad, which is expected to replace the 10th iPad (review) that launched last year. What is also not clear is whether Apple will continue to keep the much cheaper 9th generation iPad after this launch. According to the source, Apple is again expected to keep the same design as on the previous model and will only go for a spec bump on this model.
The models expected to get notable upgrades are the iPad Air and the new M3-powered iPad Pro. According to the source, Apple is reportedly experimenting with two versions of the iPad Air, one of which could be a larger 12.9-inch model of the same. This is still being tested, so there’s a good chance this second version won’t be announced at all, as the base model will still get an upgraded processor. Apple is also testing two variants (11 inches and 12.9 inches) of the new iPad Pro with an M3 processor.
The 9to5Mac report also confirms Bloomberg’s earlier report about a new Magic Keyboard for the iPad. It evolves from a soft keyboard to a normal keyboard made of aluminum and fits the new iPad Pro models. The new keyboard will also come with a larger trackpad, new sensors (which also include an accelerometer) and will make the tablet resemble one of Apple’s MacBooks.
