Apple enthusiasts have cause for excitement as the anticipated OLED iPad Pro models are predicted to make their debut in early May, following a delay that pushed back the original launch schedule. Analysts who have been tracking the developments suggest that while an end-of-month or April release was expected, the new devices are now slated for a showcasing after a short postponement.
The arrival of Apple’s next-generation iPad Pro seems imminent as model numbers associated with the devices have been spotted in official regulatory submissions. The discovery points towards a launch that is quickly approaching. The devices are listed under model numbers A2836 and A2837 in the Indian Bureau of Indian Standards database, which indicates that Apple is gearing up for the introduction of these fresh offerings.
Interestingly, alongside the potentially groundbreaking OLED iPad Pro, Apple is also rumored to be preparing new versions of the iPad Air. This poses a question about the exact product these newly discovered model numbers correspond to. While it’s plausible that both the iPad Pro and iPad Air may be unveiled simultaneously, at this point in time, there are only two new model numbers on record within the filings.
Apple’s previous year witnessed a noticeable absence of new iPad releases, leading to a shortfall in the tech giant’s earnings. Challenges in announcing new iPad models could be attributed in part to complications within the supply chain. Specifically, the integration of OLED panels into the latest models has been highlighted as a cause for the delayed launches. These panels require a complex manufacturing process which, in turn, has resulted in a lower yield.
Supplying the OLED panels for the new iPad Pro models are industry giants Samsung and LG—the former experiencing production setbacks with the 11-inch OLED displays, thereby granting LG Display an opportunity to increase its role as a supplier for Apple. The precise allocation of panel production between Samsung and LG remains unclear, yet it may be a contributing factor to why the release timeframe has shifted to May.
Given that the speculated unveiling of the new iPad models is set to occur in May—just a month prior to the WWDC 2024 event—there is speculation that Apple may opt to highlight the new iPad Pro and iPad Air during the said event. The sighting of these regulatory filings nevertheless serves as a solid indicator that the release of the OLED iPad Pro is close at hand.
Keen followers of Apple’s product developments should stay tuned for additional updates and details, as the approach of the launch is likely to bring forth more information on the technology and capabilities of these highly anticipated devices.
