Apple is expected to launch a new iPad Air in two screen sizes at its upcoming launch event next month, along with new iPad Pro models that could feature OLED displays. An analyst has just leaked details of the larger iPad Air variant, contradicting his earlier claims that Apple would update the display technology used in the alleged tablet, using leftover panels from the company's iPad Pro. Apple is now expected to equip the 10.9-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Air with the same display panels.
Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC) CEO and co-founder Ross Young has contradicted his earlier prediction that Apple would equip its rumored 12.9-inch iPad Air with a Mini-LED display, thanks to leftover iPad panels 12.9 inch Pro. According to previous reports, Apple is likely to update the iPad Pro with OLED displays, while the size of the displays is expected to increase slightly.
The analyst now claims (via MacRumors) in a subscriber-only post on X (formerly Twitter) that both iPad Air variants will be equipped with IPS LCD displays, just like its predecessor, the iPad Air (5th generation). Young further says that the decision was made due to the high costs involved in upgrading the panel.
Since Young's previous prediction, Apple has announced that it will hold a launch event called “Let loose” on May 7, where it is expected to launch new iPad Pro and iPad Air models. The Cupertino company is also slated to introduce a new Apple Pencil with support for new “slimming” gestures. The entry device is also said to allow owners to track the device using the company's Find My network. In particular, Apple's artwork for the event depicts an Apple Pencil surrounded by colors within the company's logo.
Instead of reusing its leftover Mini-LED panels in the rumored 12.9-inch iPad Air model, Apple could introduce a new iPad later this year, according to Young. At the moment, there is no mention of whether this will be an iPad Pro or iPad Air model. The analyst says that Apple is likely to launch this model in the fourth quarter of 2024.
