The much anticipated “Let Loose” event from Apple revealed a slew of interesting changes to its iPad portfolio, the first significant update in over two years. Even though the new iPad models were the centre of attention, tech aficionados and creative professionals could expect much more from the event.
The Bigger and Better iPad Air
Apple expanded the iPad Air line with the release of a new 13-inch model, which serves as a lighter and more cost-effective substitute for the iPad Pro line. The M2 microprocessor, which powers the bigger iPad Air model, is a major increase over the M1 CPU featured in the 2022 version. A staggering variety of colours, including blue, purple, starlight, and space grey, are available for the new iPad Air. Both devices include 128GB of storage as standard storage and provide options for 1TB and 512GB of additional storage.
The Redesigned iPad Pro with OLED Display
Sharper and more vibrant than ever, Apple’s high-end iPad Pro series underwent a major overhaul that featured the introduction of the first OLED display. This cutting-edge display technology promises to improve the visual experience, making it ideal for creative professionals and content creators.With a thickness of just 5.1 mm for the 13-inch device and 5.3 mm for the 11-inch model, the iPad Pro’s design is also lighter and more streamlined.
The Powerhouse M4 Chip
Apple announced the next-generation M4 CPU, which powers the new iPad Pro models, to complement the physical revamp. With its 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU, this state-of-the-art processor is based on the incredibly efficient 3nm manufacturing technology. The M4 is marketed by Apple as a “outrageously powerful chip for AI,” showcasing its remarkable performance and machine learning and artificial intelligence applications.
The Haptic Feedback-Capable Apple Pencil Pro
With the release of the Apple Pencil Pro, an enhanced writing instrument including haptic feedback, Apple dramatically enhanced the creative process. This innovative feature provides a more realistic and engaging writing experience while simulating the feel of writing on paper. Additionally, the Apple Pencil Pro adds a new menu access squeezing gesture and enables users to smoothly switch up brush forms by rolling the Pencil. The Apple Pencil Pro also works with the Find My function, so if it becomes lost, it can be readily found.
The Redesigned Magic Keyboard
Apple revealed a revamped Magic Keyboard to go along with the iPad series. It has a bigger trackpad with haptic feedback and an aluminium palm rest for improved comfort. A dedicated function row is another feature of the Magic Keyboard that streamlines the user experience. There are two colour options for the Magic Keyboard: space black and silver, which complement the sleek design of the new iPad Pro. The Magic Keyboard’s starting prices are $299 for the 11-inch model and $349 for the 13-inch one.
A More Affordable Entry-Level iPad
Apple stated that the 10th generation iPad will now start at $349, a $100 cut from its previous cost, in an effort to make its entry-level model more affordable.
Software Updates for Creative Professionals
In addition to hardware, Apple also revealed new apps and software improvements designed specifically for creative workers. With the upgraded Final Cut Pro app synchronising with the Final Cut Camera app, users can connect several iPhones or iPads to create professional-quality films or capture extra viewpoints during live multicamera sessions. The Final Cut Camera app is particularly made to allow live multicamera production.
Furthermore, Apple also expanded the creative possibilities for artists and audio professionals with the introduction of new AI-powered tools for its digital audio workstation, Logic Pro, including a virtual keyboard and bass player.
