Apple to Launch New Low-Cost iPad 11 in The Second Half of 2024, Potentially Alongside the iPad mini 7
09.12.2023 - 08:21
/ wccftech.com
/ Mark Gurman
It was initially reported that Apple will launch new iPad Pro models this year. However, the company released the new M3 MacBook Pro models instead. Apple plans to upgrade its entire iPad lineup next year, starting with the iPad Pro models in the first half of 2024. Mark Gurman said Apple will launch the OLED iPad Pro models in March. A new report now claims the company could announce the entry-level iPad in the second half of 2024.
A new report published by Nikkei Asia highlights that the Cupertino giant is working with China's BYD to shift the NPI or new production introduction resources to Vietnam. According to sources familiar with the matter, the company will begin engineering verification tests to produce the forthcoming 11th-generation iPad in February 2024. Once the device passes initial verification tests, the iPad 11 will move to the next stage of development, with launch expected in the second half.
The iPad 11 will most likely feature the same design as the current model. This is because the iPad 10 brought a new design with trimmed-down bezels and Touch ID in the Power Button instead of the Home Button. Therefore, it is very likely that the company will stick to the same design for another couple of years. This year, the company will potentially improve the camera sensor and the device's internals.
The current model features an A14 Bionic chip with a 12MP camera, USB-C, and a larger display. Apple could upgrade the iPad 11 with an A16 Bionic chip for better performance on its low-cost tablet. Other than this, the display and design of the device are expected to remain the same. However, the company could introduce new color options.
Besides the iPad 11, Apple will potentially announce the new iPad mini 7 with upgraded internals. Mark Gurman mentioned in his report that the company will announce the iPad 11 and iPad mini 7 in the second half of 2024. The iPad mini 7 could house an A17 Pro chip based on TSMC's 3nm process. This will significantly improve the performance of the smaller tablet, making it ideal for gaming. The company is rumored to fix the jelly-scrolling issue on the iPad mini next year.
Apple will launch the iPad Air and OLED iPad Pro models with upgraded chips in March. The iPad Pro will have an M3 chip, while the iPad Air will house an M2 chip. The company is also expected to announce a bigger version of the iPad Air with a 12.9-inch LCD.