The OLED iPad Pro could launch with an M4 chip

Apple is reportedly set to position its upcoming high-end iPad as an AI-focused device.

Apple is gearing up for a significant AI showcase at this year's Worldwide Developer Conference, but it seems the festivities will begin a bit earlier with the expected unveiling of the OLED iPad Pro on May 7th. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, there's a "strong possibility" that this tablet will debut with an M4 chip, complete with a neural engine, branding it as Apple's "first truly AI-powered device."

In today's Power On newsletter, Gurman notes that the May event could serve as a platform for Apple to outline its AI chip strategy clearly, without other distractions. This approach would allow the company to later concentrate on explaining how the iPad Pro and other M4 devices will utilise Apple's AI capabilities in the upcoming iPadOS 18. Potential features could include native Apple-developed capabilities and deep integration with chatbots from third parties like Google or OpenAI.

Additionally, the new Pro models are expected to receive significant OLED upgrades and new accessories. One such accessory, the next Apple Pencil, is rumoured to include haptic feedback, which could introduce unique features like simulating texture while drawing. However, the impact of continuous motor use on the Pencil’s battery life remains a concern, potentially explaining the speculated support of Apple Pencil for the Vision Pro, where haptic feedback could enhance user interaction in virtual spaces.

Back to the design of the iPad Pro, Gurman has labeled this update as the most significant redesign since 2018. Despite this, many may only notice the OLED display as a major change. Rumours suggest a slightly thinner body with rounded edges similar to the iPhone 15 Pro, but for many, these changes might not constitute a radical redesign.

Positioning the iPad Pro as the centrepiece of Apple's AI strategy could clarify its target audience—likely those at the intersection of high interest in AI and desire for a powerful tablet. While the broader appeal of the iPad Pro's AI features remains to be seen, especially when compared to potentially cheaper alternatives like the iPad Air, the full story of its on-device AI capabilities will become clearer with the release of iPadOS 18 this fall.