Apple is expected to launch new iPads this year, following a year without updates in 2023. Reports suggest that the iPad Air and iPad Pro will receive a much-anticipated design update: repositioning the FaceTime camera to the long edge of the tablet, rather than the short edge.
This design change, already seen in the 10th-generation iPad released in 2022, aims to enhance the user experience during video calls in landscape orientation, such as Zoom calls.
Rumors earlier this year hinted at the possibility of the iPad Pro adopting this new camera placement. A recent leak on Weibo suggests that the iPad Air 6 will also feature the camera positioned in the horizontal center, aligning all full-size iPads except the iPad mini.
However, questions arise regarding the placement of the camera alongside the wireless charging circuits on the long edge, where the Apple Pencil attaches for charging. It remains to be seen how Apple will address this potential space constraint, possibly hinting at changes in the charging pad or the introduction of a new Apple Pencil.
Furthermore, the leak mentions two sizes for the upcoming iPad Air, indicating models with 10.9-inch and 12.9-inch displays. The release timeline for these new iPads is speculated to be around April, although the exact number of models and their launch dates remain uncertain.
Industry experts predict a staggered release, with the iPad Pro likely to debut first, featuring an OLED screen in two sizes, accompanied by a new Apple Pencil and keyboard case. Subsequently, the iPad Air, alongside the 11th-generation iPad, is expected to follow suit in the fall.
As more information becomes available, stay tuned for updates on the anticipated new iPads from Apple.
