Apple Announces iPad Pro With M4 Chip, New iPad Air Models
Along with an Apple Pencil Pro and a revamped Magic Keyboard.
Apple has announced that it’ll be putting out new versions of its iPad Pro and iPad Air in a livestream on Tuesday.
Introduced by CEO Tim Cook, the iPad Pro is being updated with the next-gen M4 chip, the next stage in Apple’s progress in the AI space. All iPad models currently pack the M1, M2 or M3 chips but the M4 is being billed as an “outrageously powerful chip for AI.” For instance, M4 will allow users to isolate specific subjects when editing a video.
The iPad Pro is Apple’s most expensive and advanced tablet. Arriving in 11-inch and 13-inch options, going for $999 USD and $1,299 USD respectively, and just 5.1mm thick – Apple is calling it the thinnest product it’s ever released. The Pro is also being revamped with an OLED screen, the same kind that’s used in iPhones, for a brighter, more saturated display.
A new 10-core CPU is said to pack a 50% improvement, while its GPU offers ray tracing. And when it comes to taking photos, the Pro has an overall better camera, along with an adaptive flash that automatically adjusts based on the level of light in an environment.
The new iPad Air models will also come in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes with prices starting at $599 USD and $799 USD respectively. Apple has moved its front-facing camera to the side of the tablet.
To assist in using one’s new iPad, Apple topped it off with an improved, lighter Magic Keyboard attachment for the device ($299 USD for the 11-inch and $349 USD for the 12-inch) and a new $129 USD Apple Pencil Pro, packing advanced features such as “barrel roll” and “squeeze,” along with haptic feedback. Find My support is available for the Pencil and it now magnetically stores – and even charges – on the side of the iPad.
The two releases mark the first time Apple has updated its iPad lineup since 2022.
“This is the biggest day for iPad since its introduction,” Cook said.
