Apple is set to release its next iPads in early May, marking the end of the longest period without updates to the tablet line in history. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman previously predicted a release date at the end of March or in April, but now states that early May is more likely. He suggests that the launch will probably happen the week of May 6, as Apple retail stores are preparing to receive new product marketing materials.
The potential release schedule includes an announcement on Monday, May 6 or Tuesday, May 7, with pre-orders starting on Friday, May 10. Initial reviews would appear shortly after, leading up to the on-sale date of Friday, May 17. The new iPad lineup is expected to include a new iPad Pro in two sizes, featuring OLED screen technology for the first time. There may also be a redesigned Magic Keyboard and an updated Apple Pencil.
Gurman predicts that Apple will also unveil two new iPad Air models, a larger-screened model around 12.9 inches and a new version of the current 10.9-inch model. He describes the upcoming launch as one of the biggest updates to the Apple tablet lineup in a single day. While it may seem surprising that Apple is releasing new iPad Air models alongside the iPad Pro, it is not unprecedented, given the company’s history of launching multiple iPhone models in the fall.
The new iPad Pro models with OLED screens may come at a higher price, although the extent of the increase is not yet clear. Despite the potential price hike, Apple is likely aiming to offer customers a range of options to choose from. As the release date approaches, consumers can look forward to learning more about the features and improvements that Apple has in store for its latest tablet lineup. Stay tuned for further updates as the release date of the new iPads draws near.
