Apple is diligently preparing for the release of a revolutionary iPad Pro model which is expected to hit the shelves in the first half of 2024. Despite potential delays possibly pushing the release to coincide with the WWDC 2024 event or even later, recent developments suggest an earlier arrival. Revelations within the iPadOS 17.5 beta point to the impending launch of this new device, which promises to deliver an OLED display—a significant enhancement for the iPad lineage.
Previously anticipated to debut in the latter half of the previous year, alongside the M3 MacBook Pro, the iPad Pro’s introduction has been postponed multiple times, casting doubt on the speculated May launch. However, the inclusion of OLED technology—uncovered in the latest iPadOS beta—has rekindled excitement for one of the most notable upgrades in the history of iPads.
A mere month on the heels of the iOS 17.4 release, developers were greeted with the beta of iOS 17.5 and iPadOS 17.5, which unveiled a collection of fresh features. The keen eyes at the tech community discovered within this beta explicit mentions of an unannounced iPad Pro, suggesting an imminent release. Here’s what was uncovered in the code:
– iPad16,3
– iPad16,4
– iPad16,5
– iPad16,6
These identifiers seemingly correspond to forthcoming 11-inch and 12.9-inch OLED iPad Pro variants, split between WiFi-only and Cellular models, thus explaining the presence of four distinct names. This lines up with previous whispers about the adoption of OLED display technology in the new iPad Pros. The OLED panels are reported to be in production by two electronic giants, with Samsung and LG as the leading manufacturers. Current insights reveal a shift in the balance of production, with LG taking on a greater share due to Samsung’s challenges in meeting the high standards and quantities demanded.
Additionally, the iPadOS 17.5 beta has hinted at a refreshed Apple Pencil reportedly equipped with new “squeeze” interactions, expanding beyond the current Double Tap functionality to include “LongSqueeze” and “DoubleSqueeze” commands—showing a potential commitment to user customization and efficiency in accessory use.
While Apple has not yet officially announced a date for the OLED iPad Pro launch, speculation is mounting that details may be shared at the company’s upcoming software-focused event, especially as WWDC 2024 approaches.
The anticipation for this OLED iPad Pro is palpable, and with each piece of acquired data, professionals and enthusiasts alike are preparing for a leap forward in display technology that will change how they interact with Apple’s revered tablet.
