Since its very first presentation in 2010, the iPad has raised the question of its potential to supplant traditional computers. Apple’s efforts to realize this vision, through hardware and software improvements, however, have failed to truly blur the lines between the two devices. Faced with necessarily very high expectations for the new 2024 models, Apple must now clarify the role of the iPad in its ecosystem. A point which will certainly be clarified in the “Let Loose” keynote tomorrow at 4 p.m. (French time).
The limits of the iPad
The iPad has certainly conquered the majority of the tablet market (40.6% share globally in 2023), but its capacity to fully replace laptops still subject to debate. This, despite the very significant improvements made over the years, notably with the introduction of the iPad Pro (2015) and the Magic Keyboard (2020).
Currently, even if the interface and ergonomics of current iPads are an example of ergonomics and fluidity, nothing will replace the practicality of a computer to effectively manage multitasking. When it comes to productivity and versatility, the user experience remains second to none.
Faced with this state of affairs, Apple now finds itself at a crossroads. Should it continue to position the iPad as a hybrid device, complementary to laptops, or should it invest more in developing features and a user interface that would enable the iPad to compete more effectively with traditional computers ?
Apple’s new strategy
This is what should await us tomorrow during the keynote. First, the presentation of the iPad Pro 2024, which should, according to rumors, be equipped with the new M4 chip. Its OLED screen also promises to be one of the best available on the market. A development that certainly promises to offer a more laptop-like experience. Two versions are expected: one of 11 inches and the other of 12.9 inches.
The redesign of the Magic Keyboard (improved durability, aluminum and larger trackpad) and rumors of major software updates to iPadOS 18 hint at a future where the iPad could seriously compete with Macs.
The other devices in the range will obviously not be forgotten and Apple should present the little brothers of the iPad Pro. Thus, we should see the appearance of the sixth generation iPad mini (8.3-inch screen), the ninth and 10th generation iPads with respectively a 10.2-inch screen and a home button and a 10-inch screen, 9 inches without home button. Finally, the sixth generation iPad Air and its M2 chip should appear in two versions: the first, with an 11-inch screen, and the second, with a 12.9-inch screen.
The Apple company seems to be following a dual strategy for the future of its iPads. Firstly, offer a reinforced iPad Air to compete with the MacBook Air in terms of features and price. Then, provide its aficionados with an increasingly powerful iPad Pro, capable of positioning itself as a real alternative to the MacBook Pro. Apple’s objective is therefore to offer a clear and coherent iPad, while creating synergy between tablets and laptops.
So you don’t miss anything from tomorrow’s keynote, we’ve explained everything to you here! On the other hand, don’t expect to learn more about these themes; on May 7, it will be the iPad ecosystem that will be in the spotlight.
- The iPad continues to spark discussion about its role as an alternative to computers, despite advances in recent years.
- Apple will certainly elucidate the positioning of the iPad during tomorrow’s “Let Loose” keynote.
- Apple’s strategy seems geared towards creating synergy between iPad and Mac, thus providing a more complete solution for users.
