Although Apple started late, it seems a bit slow in releasing the new iPad. The last time it launched an iPad was in October last year, when it unveiled a new iPad Pro variant powered by the then-new M2 processor, as well as a new 10th-generation iPad with a new design and new keyboard accessories. While we’ve been hearing rumors about some new, interesting iPad models, there’s finally some confirmation that they are indeed being tested and should be launching soon.
9to5mac Sources say that everything is on track and Apple will release some new iPad models soon. This will include a new iPad Mini (or Mini 7), which will replace the currently available iPad Mini 2021. According to sources, it will retain the design of the older model and only offer specification upgrades. Yet as Apple plans to release this product, it’s oddly still a difficult question to answer. The last Mini (review) was released in September 2021 and featured an upgraded design, including thinner bezels, A15 Bionic chip, 5G connectivity, and more.
Next up is the new 11th generation iPad, which is expected to replace the 10th generation iPad launched last year ( review ). It’s also unclear whether Apple will keep the much cheaper 9th generation iPad around after this launch. According to sources, Apple is expected to once again retain the same design as the previous generation model and only improve the specifications on this model.
Models expected to receive significant upgrades include the iPad Air and the new iPad Pro with M3. Sources revealed that Apple is testing two versions of iPad Air, one of which may be a larger 12.9-inch model. This version is still in testing, so it’s likely that the second version won’t be fully released as the base model will still get the upgraded processor. Apple is also testing two versions of the new iPad Pro (11-inch and 12.9-inch) with built-in M3 processors.
9to5Mac’s report also confirms Bloomberg’s previous report on the new Magic Keyboard for iPad. It will evolve from a soft keyboard to a regular aluminum keyboard and will snap onto new iPad Pro models. The new keyboard will also feature a larger trackpad, new sensors (also including an accelerometer), and make the tablet look like one of Apple’s MacBooks.
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