Contrary to October rumors suggesting a new iPad release, Apple chose not to unveil any new iPad models this year. However, there are strong indications that the tech giant is gearing up for a significant update in 2024.
As reported by ET News, Apple is set to launch the initial iPad Pro models featuring organic light-emitting diodes (OLED) in the coming year. In an equally noteworthy development, Apple is also planning to expand the size of the iPad mini, increasing it from 8.3 inches to 8.7 inches.
As per the latest report, a forthcoming 8.7-inch iPad mini is slated to make its debut in 2026, accompanied by a new 10.9-inch iPad Air. The subsequent year will witness the introduction of a groundbreaking 12.9-inch iPad Air. Notably, all three tablets are anticipated to incorporate OLED technology. This marks a departure from the current iPad lineup, which utilizes liquid crystal displays (LCD). The shift to OLED promises a slimmer and lighter design compared to the existing LCD technology.
While the upcoming iPads mentioned earlier will share the commonality of OLED displays, a crucial distinction is expected among them. The 2024 iPad Pro series is anticipated to feature an LTPO panel, enabling a ProMotion feature with an impressive maximum refresh rate of 120Hz. In contrast, the other models are slated to incorporate LTPS panels, which will limit their refresh rates to 60Hz.
For those considering an upgrade for their iPad mini or iPad Air, the forthcoming updates might not bring the anticipated shift to OLED technology. The rumored seventh-generation iPad mini, projected to launch with an A16 Bionic chip, offers a slight improvement over its predecessor’s A15 Bionic chip. Notably, this model may also address the jelly scrolling issue faced by some users of the current iPad mini 6, thanks to a new display controller.
In a parallel development, the sixth-generation iPad Air is expected to feature an M2 chip, replacing the current M1 chip. Additionally, the recently updated regular iPad from 2022 might undergo further enhancements in the upcoming year.
Expanding beyond iPads, the OLED wave is set to reach MacBooks, as per ET News. The first MacBook with OLED panels is slated for a 2025 debut, with the 14-inch MacBook Pro, 13-inch MacBook Air, and 15-inch MacBook Air all potentially receiving OLED updates in 2026. This signals a broader shift in display technology across Apple’s product lineup.