Everything Expected From Apple's iPad-Focused 'Let Loose' Event

Multiple rumours suggest that the company may release two sizes for the iPad Air and the inclusion of an OLED screen and an M4 chip for the iPad Pro.

On May 7 (Tuesday), Apple will host its inaugural hardware event of the year. Dubbed "Let Loose", the online-only event will be broadcast through Apple's official channels. While the California-headquartered tech giant has kept details under wraps regarding the specific hardware categories to be unveiled, expectations are high for the keynote to introduce new products. The event is anticipated to shine spotlight on new Apple iPad models and their accompanying accessories.

Multiple rumours suggest that the company may release two sizes for the iPad Air and the inclusion of an OLED screen and an M4 chip for the iPad Pro. This would be a significant overhaul for Apple's premium tablets this year. 

The new iPads are likely to debut with the M2 chipset.

Apple Manufacturers Started OLED Production In February

Previous reports indicated that Apple's manufacturers commenced OLED production in February 2024. While the company has an adequate supply of 13-inch displays, it isexperiencing delays in production for 11-inch screens.

Following speculations regarding Apple's introduction of the new iPad Pro in early 2024, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman anticipated Apple to unveil this device in early May. In one of his Power On newsletters, Gurman mentioned that Apple was gearing up with a "special version of iOS 17.4 with support for the new hardware." Given Apple's confirmed special event on May 7, we anticipate this device to debut with iPadOS 17.5.

Both iPad Models May Feature OLED Display

In fact, among all the rumours, this particular one has been the most persistent throughout the lifecycle of the 2022 iPad Pro. Back in October of last year, DSCC's analyst Ross Young forecasted that both iPad Pro models would feature an OLED display by 2024.

Young suggests that Apple is opting for this transition because of decreasing costs and advancements in OLED performance, particularly with tandem stacks and phosphorescent blue emitters. In addition to Young, several other analysts, including The Elec, Omdia, Bloomberg, and others, have also supported the idea that OLED is on its way to the new iPad.

iPad Pro May Get Bigger Panel

In a recent edition of his Power On newsletter, Gurman reported that Apple is enlarging the display size of the larger iPad Pro from 12.9 inches to 13 inches. However, it remains uncertain whether Apple will alter the aluminium finish of this tablet or introduce any other design changes.