Apple’s recent special event unveiled significant changes to the iPad lineup, including the introduction of four new models, the discontinuation of one model, and a substantial price drop for another. The keynote, lasting approximately 40 minutes, showcased a revamped iPad range, with only the iPad mini remaining unchanged.
The ninth-generation iPad, featuring Touch ID on the front glass, was retired, making way for the 10th-generation model, which saw a $100 price reduction to $349, making it an attractive option for consumers looking for a full-screen tablet with a 10.9-inch display. Meanwhile, the iPad Air received an upgrade with a slightly larger 11-inch screen and the introduction of a new 13-inch size, both powered by the Apple M2 chip, an improvement over the previous M1 chip.
Despite the enhancements, the price of the new 11-inch iPad Air in the U.S. remains the same as its predecessor at $599, offering faster performance and an increased storage capacity of 128GB. In the U.K., customers will benefit from a reduced price from £669 to £599. The larger 13-inch iPad Air, also equipped with 128GB storage, starts at $799 in the U.S. and £799 in the U.K.
The new iPad Pro models, available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, feature a sleek design with a thickness of 5.3mm and 5.1mm, respectively. Both devices include OLED screens, incorporating Tandem OLED technology for enhanced brightness. The Apple M4 chip, a brand-new processor, powers these iPads, offering AI capabilities and exceeding expectations by skipping the conventional M3 model. The devices also come with updated accessories such as the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro, catering specifically to iPad Pro users with improved functionality and design.
The Magic Keyboard accessory, priced at $299 for the 11-inch model and $349 for the 13-inch model, provides a keyboard experience comparable to that of MacBook Air or MacBook Pro. The Apple Pencil Pro, available for $129, features new functions such as a squeeze function and a rolling feature for adjusting brush strokes. All the newly announced products are set to go on sale next week, giving consumers the opportunity to upgrade to the latest and most advanced iPad models in the market.
Overall, Apple’s special event marked a significant milestone for the iPad line-up with the introduction of new models, price reductions, and enhanced features across the range. The unveiling of the iPad Air with a larger screen size and improved performance, alongside the cutting-edge iPad Pro models powered by the latest Apple M4 chip, reflects Apple’s commitment to innovation and meeting consumer demands for high-quality, advanced technology. The updated accessories, including the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro, further enhance the user experience, offering a seamless and efficient workflow for iPad users.
