No iPads launched in 2023, Apple set for major overhaul in 2024 after an unprecedented year of no updates

In an unusual turn of events driven by production delays and scheduling challenges, Apple has broken its tradition of annual updates for the iPad, marking the first time in the company’s history that no iPad models have been released in the current calendar year.

Renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo is optimistic about the tech giant’s aggressive comeback in 2024, promising a comprehensive overhaul of its iPad lineup. Kuo’s predictions include the introduction of a larger 12.9-inch option for the iPad Air, OLED displays for the iPad Pro, updates to the iPad mini, and the launch of a new generation of the most affordable entry-level iPad.

Despite the anticipated product refresh, Kuo remains cautious about projected unit sales. He foresees total iPad shipments reaching approximately 52-54 million units, a marginal increase from the estimated 50 million units shipped this year. This figure still falls short of the 2022 pandemic peak, which saw 63 million units sold.

Kuo outlines the expected timeline for these updates, starting with the iPad Air lineup slated for a first-quarter 2024 release. The revamp includes an update to the existing 10.9-inch model and the introduction of a new 12.9-inch variant, confirming earlier supply chain rumours. While the iPad Air will continue to use LCD display panels, enhancements such as a new oxide backplane and chip upgrades for improved performance are anticipated.

Moving into the second quarter of 2024, Apple is set to launch a new generation of iPad Pro models. The revamped iPad Pro devices will showcase a redesigned chassis, the latest M3 chip, and a groundbreaking shift to OLED displays, marking the first time Apple incorporated this technology into its tablet lineup. The switch to OLED is expected to deliver notable improvements in both display quality and power consumption compared to the existing mini-LED technology.

Looking ahead to the second half of the year, likely in the fall, Apple plans to refresh the lower end of its tablet range with updated versions of the iPad mini and the base model iPad (11th generation). Notably, the current most affordable iPad, the iPad (9th generation), is slated for discontinuation before the end of 2024, signalling the completion of the Lighting port transition for the entire iPad lineup.