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More tangible evidence has emerged of new iPad Pro models with OLED displays.
An investigation into iPadOS 17.5’s beta code at 9to5Mac has unearthed display firmware linked to the upcoming tablets. As expected, there will be four new iPad Pro variants that are likely to use OLED screens. Previous leaks hinted they would come in 11- and 12.9-inch models with Wi-Fi and cellular data options.
The discovery also shed light on the rumored Apple Pencil 3. The iPadOS beta mentions three new gestures for the stylus, including a regular “squeeze” as well as double and long squeezes. While their full functionality wasn’t clear, the basic gesture would be used for quick actions like adding objects.
A previous?9to5Mac effort also found references to a new Apple Pencil with Find My tracking support.
The OLED model is believed to represent the first major redesign of the iPad Pro since 2018 and would revolve around a slimmer body. Apple’s M3 chip would provide a speed boost over the 2022-era M2 model, particularly in graphics.
The Apple Pencil 3 may launch with the new tablet range alongside an updated, more laptop-like Magic Keyboard. A refreshed iPad Air line may arrive at the same time with 10.9 and new 12.9-inch versions.
If?Bloomberg is accurate, all the new iPads are poised to launch the week of May 6th. Pricing isn’t yet certain, but the iPad Pro OLED series may carry a premium versus the outgoing LCD-based hardware.
Both iPad models could significantly improve Apple’s fortunes. The company didn’t update any iPad models in 2023, and sales of the hardware have been on the decline for the past two years. While Apple has continued to lead the tablet market, it has faced mounting competition from rivals like Samsung and Lenovo.
