Apple's upcoming 'Let Loose' event: Anticipated releases for new iPads on may 7

Apple has set its next product showcase for May 7, preceding the Worldwide Developers Conference by a few weeks. Although the company is typically secretive, clues suggest a new iPad lineup refresh. The event, dubbed "Let Loose," features an image hinting at an Apple Pencil. Reports hint at what's to come, offering insight into the anticipated iPad event.

M2 iPad Air

Regarding the iPad Air, which Apple has left untouched for over two years, expectations point to an upgrade to M2 chips from the current M1 processors. Rumors speculate that Apple might opt for the older chip in the iPad Air to distinguish it from the Pro models, ensuring clear stratification of its tablet lineup. Reports also suggest a shift of the iPad Air's front-facing camera to the landscape edge, a welcome change.

Another significant anticipated alteration for the iPad Air is its size. Apple is rumored to be preparing the first 12.9-inch iPad Air, potentially offering a large-screen option at a more affordable price point, albeit deviating slightly from the "Air" moniker.

Initially, display analyst Ross Young hinted at a mini-LED display for the 12.9-inch iPad Air, but recent indications suggest otherwise, at least for now. Young speculates that Apple might introduce an iPad Air with a mini-LED display later this year. Additionally, the new iPad Air models may feature a larger camera bump, possibly to accommodate the addition of a flash.

M3 iPad Pro

It's been roughly 18 months since Apple last updated its iPad lineup, making it ripe for a refresh. The anticipated move to M3 chips in the latest iPad Pro models isn't surprising, considering the preceding versions run on M2 chipsets.

The major expected enhancement revolves around OLED displays, per Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. This upgrade promises richer colors and deeper blacks for the iPad Pro.

Due to OLED panels' thinner profile compared to LCD panels, Apple may slim down the iPad Pro. The 11-inch model is rumored to be 0.8 mm thinner at 5.1 mm, while the 12.9-inch version could see a more significant reduction of 1.5 mm to 5 mm, as per reports from 9to5 Mac. Additionally, leaks suggest bezels could be up to 15 percent thinner than previous models.

Speculation has circulated about Apple introducing a glass-backed iPad Pro this year to enable MagSafe charging. Furthermore, there are indications that Apple might address a common complaint by relocating the front-facing camera to the landscape edge of the Pro, similar to the setup on the entry-level iPad introduced in late 2022. This adjustment would provide a more convenient camera placement for users of the Magic Keyboard or those who prefer landscape orientation.

New Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil

According to Gurman's report last year, Apple has been developing an overhauled Magic Keyboard specifically for the iPad Pro, excluding the Air lineup. This updated keyboard aims to give the iPad Pro a more laptop-like appearance, featuring a larger trackpad. It's anticipated to be constructed from aluminum for enhanced durability compared to previous models, while maintaining the cover material of the current model.

Furthermore, Apple is anticipated to introduce a new iteration of the Apple Pencil to replace the second-generation model. Data miners have hinted that this updated accessory may incorporate a squeeze gesture for executing certain actions and include Find My support. Some reports have suggested that the next Apple Pencil could also be compatible with Vision Pro drawing apps.