It’s been a long time since we’ve seen innovation from the iPad. Apple didn’t release any models last year, making it the first calendar year without a new iPad since Apple’s tablet was first released in 2010. But that could all change next week — Apple is holding an event on May 7, and new iPads are expected to be the focus.
The latest iPad rumors point to new iPad Pros with OLED displays and a new 12.9-inch size for the iPad Air. The entry-level iPad and iPad Mini aren’t expected to see updates at the May 7 event; new models in those lines aren’t likely until the fall.
Apple needs to do something with the iPad to keep consumers interested in its device that’s neither iPhone nor MacBook. The iPad has always occupied the middle ground between the company’s phones and laptops, and now it has company in this in-between zone with the arrival of the Vision Pro. CNET’s Scott Stein said the Vision Pro feels like “an iPad exploded into space.” The Vision Pro is far too expensive right now to cannibalize iPad sales, but as its price comes down in the years to come, it will compete with the iPad for our third-screen needs and dollars.
We will soon get confirmation as to which direction Apple is taking its tablets. Here’s what the rumored updates will look like for each iPad line.
