Apple is accelerating its move into artificial intelligence (AI) hardware with the upcoming release of the new iPad Pro. With this, the Cupertino-based tech giant will join the likes of Samsung and Google. The 2024 iPad Pro model, anticipated to be unveiled at Apple’s “Let Loose” event slated for May 7, is likely to be powered by the M4 chip instead of the current latest Apple silicon, the M3 chip. This debut would mark the release of the M4 chip alongside the iPad Pro.
Reports suggest that the M4 chip will incorporate a new neural processing unit (NPU) designed for on-device AI model processing. Bloomberg News has reported a strong likelihood of Apple choosing the M4 chip for the iPad Pro, positioning it as the company's inaugural AI-powered device. Anticipated to include a new neural engine, this chip is poised to enable enhanced AI functionalities.
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How To Watch Apple's Let Loose Event
The Let Loose event is slated to be held on May 7 at 7:30 PM IST and will be available for live streaming via Apple.com or the Apple TV app.
Before its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June, Apple plans to unveil the new iPad Pro, providing an opportunity to unveil its AI chip strategy without constraints. Additionally, it is anticipated that both the M4 chip and the new iPad Pros will harness AI software and services integrated into iPadOS 18, slated for a likely release this fall.
Apple is also anticipated to introduce new AI tools and functionalities across its upcoming OS versions -- iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS. This move also suggests that the upcoming iPhone 16 series could be powered by an A18 chip, featuring NPU capabilities akin to those of the M4 chip for running AI models.
On the AI front, news agency Bloomberg has reported Apple's renewed discussions with Microsoft-backed OpenAI regarding hosting AI features on the upcoming iPhone.