Apple is gearing up to launch a reimagined iPad Pro in the coming year, with the goal of revitalizing a stagnant tablet market, as reported by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. This forthcoming iteration of the iPad Pro marks a substantial overhaul, the first in a span of five years.
The tablet market, including Apple’s own iPad category, has been facing challenges. Sales have witnessed a decline, particularly evident in the most recent quarter, with a significant 17% drop in unit shipments. Factors contributing to this downturn include the pandemic-induced surge and consumers opting to retain fully functional older tablets or gravitating towards larger smartphones instead.
Apple’s Role in the Market Challenges Apple’s strategic choices have also played a role in the market’s current predicament. Updates to the iPad have been relatively minor, leading to a convoluted lineup with numerous models and generations.
The company’s enhancements to the Mac lineup have bolstered their durability and cost-effectiveness, thereby diminishing the necessity for iPads in certain scenarios. Additionally, the iPad software lacks the comprehensive functionality akin to that of a Mac.
Notwithstanding these challenges, Apple continues to dominate the market with a 37% share of tablet shipments in the previous quarter. Despite its declining sales, Apple’s performance still surpasses that of most competitors. While Xiaomi has seen growth, it remains on a smaller scale in comparison to Apple.
Eagerly Awaiting the iPad Pro Overhaul According to Mark Gurman’s insights, the forthcoming iPad Pro models, codenamed J717, J718, J720, and J721, will boast the cutting-edge M3 chip and OLED displays akin to those employed in iPhones since 2017. These OLED displays offer superior clarity, brightness, and color accuracy.
The anticipated rejuvenation of the iPad Pro holds the promise of a turnaround for the market. Set to make its debut in the next year, the revamped model will showcase the M3 chip and OLED displays, ushering in heightened clarity, brightness, and color precision.
Available in 11-inch and 13-inch variants, the larger model will introduce a redesigned Magic Keyboard complete with an expanded trackpad, evoking the familiarity of a laptop.
