Apple aims to reinvigorate its sluggish tablet market with its latest iPad lineup. In a pre-recorded live-streamed event from Cupertino, California, the tech giant unveiled updated versions of the iPad Pro and iPad Air, alongside a new Apple Pencil Pro. CEO Tim Cook dubbed Tuesday’s announcement as “the biggest day for iPad since its introduction.”
At the core of the new iPad Pro is Apple’s custom M4 processor, delivering four times the performance of its predecessors. With this “outrageously powerful” chip for AI, Apple seeks to elevate user experiences. The company is set to unveil its initial AI-tools for the iPhone and iPad at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference in June.
The latest iPad Pro is available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, boasting a slim 5.1mm profile for the 11-inch model and combining two OLED panels for maximum brightness. The iPad Air, now offered in both sizes for the first time, features the M2 processor, 50% faster than its predecessor, with enhanced support for AI-powered software and a front-facing landscape camera.
The upgraded Apple Pencil, priced at $129, introduces a new squeeze function for tool access and customizable drawing layers, with Find My support for easy location. A redesigned Magic Keyboard with a haptic trackpad enhances the iPad’s laptop-like functionality. Notable app upgrades, including AI-based audio editing in Final Cut, were also showcased.
The new iPad lineup is available for pre-order starting Tuesday and will hit stores next week. Despite a 17% year-over-year decline in iPad revenue reported last quarter, Apple anticipates double-digit growth for the June quarter. Analysts see potential in the iPad Pro’s M4 chip and performance upgrades to drive consumer interest and encourage upgrades, amidst ongoing market challenges.
Apple’s emphasis on generative AI tools hints at future innovations, aiming to differentiate its products in a competitive landscape. Cook teased upcoming developments in AI, signaling the company’s commitment to advancing technological frontiers.
Source: CNN
