May 07, 2024
The much-anticipated Apple "Let Loose" event is underway! The tech world is abuzz with excitement as Apple unveils its latest creations. RumoUrs have been swirling for weeks about what innovations Apple has in store, and now we're finally getting the answers.
This event is more than just a product launch; it's a glimpse into the future of technology. It's a chance to see how Apple envisions its products shaping our lives and transforming the way we work, play, and connect.
Apple's CEO, Tim Cook, kicked off the "Let Loose" event video with a bang, declaring "this is the biggest day for iPad since its introduction." Living up to his bold statement, Cook quickly pivoted to the highly anticipated iPad segment of the presentation.
"There's no other device like it," Cook asserted, emphasising the unique position of the iPad within the tech landscape. He then dove straight into details, revealing the first product: the new iPad Air. According to Cook, this iteration brings "iPad Pro features to a more affordable price point," hinting at the possible inclusion of the powerful M2 chip in the new iPad Air.
Apple unveils iPad Air 6
Apple unveiled the much-anticipated iPad Air 6, well, technically the iPad Air (2024), and it boasts a significant upgrade: size options! For the first time, users can choose between an 11-inch model, the familiar size, and a brand new 13-inch version, offering 30% more screen real estate.
The new iPad Air prioritises landscape orientation. This is reflected in the placement of the stereo speakers, which are positioned on the sides for optimal sound experience when holding the device horizontally.
Colour options include two new additions, a vibrant blue and a sophisticated purple, alongside the classic starlight and space gray finishes.
Under the hood, the iPad Air (2024) packs a powerful punch with the M2 chip. This aligns with expectations, considering the M2's presence in some of Apple's latest Mac computers and its proven ability to deliver exceptional performance.
Apple complements the new iPad Air with a redesigned Magic Keyboard, featuring a built-in trackpad and backlit keys for enhanced productivity. Additionally, the iPad Air (2024) offers compatibility with the Apple Pencil's hover features, previously exclusive to the iPad Pro.
iPad Pro — Apple's slimmest device till date
Following the exciting reveal of the iPad Air (2024), Apple wasted no time in transitioning to the star of the show: the new iPad Pro (2024). With a bold claim of "crushing expectations," Apple played a playful video hinting at the device's durability. Let's delve into the specifics!
The iPad Pro (2024) boasts a stunning redesign. Similar to the new iPad Air, it comes in two size options: 11-inch and 13-inch. Moreover, the new Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro is larger, with a proper Function keys row, as well as an expanded palm wrest and trackpad.
Apple emphasises a significant reduction in thickness across both models, claiming the difference is "striking." In fact, they assert that the new iPad Pro is even thinner than the iconic iPod nano, solidifying its position as Apple's slimmest device to date.
The Cupertino-based tech giant unveiled the iPad Pro (2024) featuring a groundbreaking display technology: OLED. This marks the first time Apple integrates OLED panels into its iPad lineup.
But wait, there's more! Apple introduced a new technology called "Tandem OLED" specifically for these iPad Pros. This innovative approach promises exceptional brightness, reaching a staggering 1,000 nits under normal conditions and an even more impressive peak brightness of 1,600 nits.
Apple christens these displays "Ultra Retina XDR," and they'll be a defining feature of both new iPad Pro models. Remarkably, these incredibly thin devices — the thinnest Apple products ever, according to the company — manage to house two OLED panels within their sleek frames. Apple goes a step further, boldly claiming these new iPad screens are the "world's most advanced display."
The iPad Pro (2024) also holds the distinction of being the first device to be powered by the all-new Apple M4 chipset. Apple emphasised that this next-generation processor was essential to achieving the iPad Pro's remarkably thin design while simultaneously delivering a significant performance leap. The presentation then dives deeper into the technical specifications of the M4 chip.
The iPad Pro (2024) itself sees a storage upgrade, starting at 256GB. However, this improvement comes at a price. The iPad Pro has undergone a price increase of a few hundred dollars in the US (specific figures to come). The inclusion of those cutting-edge OLED displays is likely a major contributor to the price jump.
Apple also didn't shy away from the elephant in the room — the iPad Pro's hefty price tag. Recalling the 2022 model's 12.9-inch version priced at $1,099 (and similar figures globally), they acknowledged the need for this high-end device to deliver professional-grade performance to truly justify its cost.
The presentation takes a strategic turn, highlighting the iPad Pro's capabilities in applications like Final Cut Pro. This software demonstration hints at the potential arrival of AI features within Apple's software ecosystem.
While Apple hasn't explicitly confirmed these features as the same "AI features" mentioned by Cook in a recent earnings call, the timing and focus suggest these might be the first instances of AI functionality embedded within individual apps, rather than being part of the core system software.
This revised version provides a clearer structure, emphasizes the key points (price tag, professional use case, and potential AI integration), and avoids redundancy. It also uses transition words ("Recalling," "The presentation takes a strategic turn") to enhance readability.
Apple Pencil Pro launched
Apple Pencil Pro brings more than just a sleek design to the table. It boasts a new sensor within its barrel that allows users to activate a customizable toolset with a simple squeeze gesture. A satisfying haptic vibration confirms the action.
The built-in gyroscope adds a layer of precision by detecting tilting and rotation, potentially opening doors for new creative uses, particularly when combined with Apple Vision Pro (although specifics remain undisclosed).
Third-party developers are encouraged to create innovative interactions specifically for the Apple Pencil Pro, hinting at a future filled with exciting functionalities. Security-wise, the Apple Pencil Pro joins the Find My network, allowing you to locate it with other nearby Apple devices if misplaced. While compatible devices haven't been explicitly confirmed, the presentation's shift back to the new iPad Pro (2024) models suggests a strong connection there.
Apple May event played out as predicted
The curtain has closed on Apple's "Let Loose" event, leaving attendees with a plethora of new iPad news but no groundbreaking announcements in the realm of artificial intelligence. Today's event focused on hardware rather than software advancements.
The star of the show was undoubtedly the new iPad lineup. Apple unveiled two size options for both the iPad Air and iPad Pro, catering to users who prioritise portability or screen real estate. Additionally, a new Apple Pencil was introduced, presumably boasting improved functionalities.
Overall, the event played out largely as predicted by leaks. While it wasn't a revolutionary showcase, it delivered a solid update to the iPad family. We'll be diving deeper soon, going hands-on with the new tablets and gleaning further insights from Apple representatives. Stay tuned for a more comprehensive breakdown of the "biggest iPad update in its history," as Apple claimed.
