Apple introduces fresh iPad Pro and iPad Air range
Yesterday, during a pre-recorded live stream from its headquarters in Cupertino, California, Apple made some major announcements. The tech giant unveiled the latest iterations of its iPad Pro and iPad Air tablets, as well as an all-new Apple Pencil Pro.
Apple's CEO, Tim Cook, deemed the event a "huge day for iPad since its introduction." The new iPad Pro boasts Apple's very own M4 chip - this powerhouse delivers four times the performance of previous iPad Pro models. It's available in two sizes: 11 inches and 13 inches. The 11-inch model is incredibly thin at 5.1 mm and weighs less than a pound. The display combines two OLED panels for maximum brightness. You've got two finish options: silver or space black.
The iPad Air, for the first time, comes in the same dimensions: an 11-inch model for $599 and a 13-inch model for $799. The latter size borrows inspiration from the iPad Pro and its larger screen, offering 30% more screen space than the 11-inch model. The iPad Air contains the custom M2 chip, outfitted with a faster GPU and neural engine. This combination makes the device 50% more efficient at running AI-based apps. Additionally, it features a front-facing landscape camera.
Both devices are ready for pre-order as of yesterday and will hit shelves next week.
The timing of this announcement is undeniably interesting. Yesterday, Apple reported a $5.6 billion revenue from its iPad sales for the third quarter, down 17% compared to last year. However, the company is optimistic about its future growth, predicting a significant increase of "double digits" during the following quarter.
The tech giant's first-quarter revenue was lower as well, reaching $90.8 billion, a 4% decline compared to the same period last year. Rumors of iPhone sales slumps continue as Apple also revealed a $110 billion share buyback, their largest yet.
During the earnings call, Tim Cook hinted at potential integration of generative AI tools into Apple products "in the coming weeks." Currently, Apple has some catching up to do in this area as its competitors have already made significant strides in this sector. The Worldwide Developer Conference in June will see Apple unveil new features for its iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers.
"We're excited about generative AI and see it as a significant opportunity across our product line," said Cook. "We believe we have certain benefits that set us apart here."
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Source: edition.cnn.com
