Apple Let Loose event 2024: OLED screen for iPad Pro to 12.9-inch iPad Air, everything launching tomorrow

06/05/2024

And the timer is on. After an almost 18-month hiatus, Apple is finally set to release a major refresh to its iPad lineup on May 7, 2024, in an online event dubbed ‘Let Loose.’ Apple’s Chief Executive Officer, Tim Cook, is reportedly set to lead the online presentation, which is expected to last around 30 minutes. The event is the first big event Apple is hosting this year and is anticipated to bring significant upgrades to the iPad Pro and iPad Air, along with potential updates to their accessories. Here is everything we expect from the Let Loose event happening tomorrow.

iPad Pro to get better with OLED Screens

The biggest highlight of the event is said to be the introduction of OLED screens for the iPad Pro. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple will upgrade the screens of the iPad Pro to provide richer visuals with improved brightness, contrast, and colour accuracy, making the iPad Pro even more powerful for creative professionals and media enthusiasts.

Thinner design and potential M4 Chip

The new iPad Pro models are also expected to be significantly thinner compared to their predecessors, with the 12.9-inch model potentially shrinking by 20% and the 11-inch model by 15%. This sleek design might be partially attributed to the adoption of OLED displays, but battery life remains a potential concern.

Rumours also suggest that Apple is set to debut its new generation faster M4 chip with the iPad Pro lineup, offering significant performance and efficiency improvements over the current M3 chip. This could further solidify the iPad Pro’s position as a powerful productivity and creative powerhouse. However, for Macs, Apple is expected to refresh the lineup later in the year.

Redesigned Front Camera

Similar to the base iPad, the iPad Pro is expected to relocate its front-facing camera to the landscape bezel. This change aims to provide a more natural and intuitive experience during video conferencing.

New Magic Keyboard

Apple might also unveil a redesigned Magic Keyboard specifically for the new iPad Pro models. This iteration could feature an aluminium base for a more laptop-like feel, a larger trackpad, and possibly even a row of function keys, further boosting productivity and usability.

New Apple Pencil 3

The long-awaited third-generation Apple Pencil is also rumoured to debut tomorrow, featuring upgrades such as swappable tips, Find My integration, and a potential “squeeze” gesture for additional control options. This could cater to a wider range of creative needs and workflows.

And a big price hike

With significant upgrades and potentially a new chip, price increases for the new iPad Pro models are also likely. Reports suggest that base prices could rise by at least $100, and when factoring in the potential need for a new Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil, the overall cost of a complete iPad Pro package might see a significant jump.

iPad Air to get bigger and better

While the iPad Pro takes centre stage with its OLED revolution, Apple is also expected to update the iPad Air lineup. The most notable addition will be a 12.9-inch iPad Air, marking the first time this larger size enters the Air category. However, this model is likely to retain the LCD display technology of previous Air models. Similar to the iPad Pro, the front-facing camera will be repositioned to the landscape bezel.

No Magic Keyboard for iPad Air

Despite the upgrades, the redesigned Magic Keyboard will reportedly remain exclusive to the iPad Pro models, potentially maintaining a clear distinction between the two iPad tiers.

iPadOS 17.5 release date and more

Apple might also announce the release date for iPadOS 17.5. While major feature additions might be limited, expect information on Find My security enhancements and the potential addition of new games and apps. However, a more comprehensive OS update, potentially iPadOS 18, alongside iOS 18 and other updates, might be unveiled at Apple’s WWDC event scheduled for a month later.