If all goes according to plan, Apple will unveil new iPads on Tuesday, May 7. It’s been a while since the last iPad release in October 2022, so expectations are incredibly high for those eagerly waiting to purchase a new Apple tablet.
I normally buy the iPad Pro and have the current 11-inch model, and I’m curious about Apple’s plans for this product line. However, most people are probably more interested in the upcoming iPad Air line in 2024.
Both lines will be updated next week. In recent years, the iPad Air has positioned itself between the budget iPad and the high-end iPad Pro, making it a popular choice for many.
However, the iPad Air’s biggest drawback has always been its size. Unlike the iPad Pro line, which has long included two sizes, 11 inches and 12.9 inches, the iPad Air has been restricted to just one: a tablet that measures 10.9 inches diagonally. This has been a disadvantage for many creatives who need a larger iPad but can’t afford the iPad Pro.
However, things on this front are about to change. Apple is expected to reveal two new iPad Air models for the first time. In addition to the 2024 10.9-inch model, the company is set to announce a 12.9-inch model. This move is certainly a direct response to the needs of creatives who require a larger screen, but are on a limited budget, and will open up new possibilities and opportunities. It’s an exciting move on paper, but I’m also a little nervous.
Will Apple stick the landing?
Screen quality and chipset will likely be the critical differences between this year’s iPad Pro and iPad AAirlines
The new iPad Pro models are expected to feature OLED technology for the first time. Conversely, the new iPad Air models will include a less expensive LCD screen or we could see the larger model offer mini-LED. It’s worth noting that the current iPad Pro lineup features an LLCD on the 11-inch model and a mini LED on the 12.9-inch version.
Beyond display quality, the 2024 iPad Pro and iPad Air lines are likely to be distinguished by their chips, a factor that could significantly impact the user experience. The iPad Air line could include the M3, which is currently found in the MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and iMac models. At the same time, the iPad Pros could feature an all-new M4 chip that promises even more power and efficiency.
What does the future hold for the iPad Air?
The introduction of superior displays and chips in the new iPad Pro models will likely justify Apple charging even higher prices for this line. This move is likely to create a significant price gap between the new iPad Pro and iPad Air models. However, the extent of this price difference will largely depend on how much higher the prices of this year’s iPad Pro models will be compared to the current generation.
The 11-inch iPad Pro Price Compares
The 11-inch iPad Pro currently starts at $799, while the 12.9-inch model starts at $1,099. This compares to $599 for the cheapest iPad Air.
Previous rumors were suggesting that the starting price of the 11-inch iPad Pro model would be $1,500, and the 12.9-inch model would start at $1,800. However, these prices never made sense, even during times of high inflation. More recent rumors suggest that the iPad Pro price increases would not exceed $160. Assuming Apple charges an extra $200 per device, the cheapest 11-inch iPad Pro would cost $999, and the least expensive 12.9-inch iPad Pro would jump to $1,299.
What does the future hold for the iPad Air? If Apple keeps prices unchanged, the 10.9-inch model would still be $599. And considering there’s a $300 difference between the 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models, the larger iPad Air could start at $899.
Check Out the All iPad Air Price
Apple could also decide to add about $200 to the price of each new iPad Pro and iPad Air model. In that case, the upcoming 10.9-inch iPad Air would start at $799, while the 12.9-inch model would cost $1,099. In this case, the new alignment would be:
- 10.9-inch iPad Air, $799
- 11-inch iPad Pro, $999
- 12.9-inch iPad Air, $1,099
- 12.9-inch iPad Pro, $1,299
I’m concerned about how Apple could further differentiate the iPad Air from the iPad Pro to increase its profits. Currently, both models differ in terms of camera quality, authentication methods, and other factors. I hope those differences don’t persist, especially if Apple intends to charge $799 for an iPad Air. Differences that extend beyond chipset and screen quality would be less of a factor if Apple keeps iPad Air prices at 2022 levels.
We will know very soon. The May 7 Apple Event starts at 7 a.m. PT. You can stream the event live or later in the day through Apple’s website, on X (formerly Twitter), and through the company’s YouTube account.
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