Apple is set to host its “Let Loose” event on May 7, just a month before the Worldwide Developer Conference. The focus of the event will be iPads, including the iPad Pro and iPad Air, as well as the long-neglected Apple Pencil. The invitation to the event hinted at a potential M4 announcement, which would mark a change in Apple’s silicon release cadence.
Speculation around the M4 announcement stems from Microsoft’s expected release of first-party, ARM-based silicon at its Build conference later in the month. There are rumors that Microsoft’s AI-focused silicon will outperform Apple’s M3 chips. Apple had announced the M3 chips just seven months ago, indicating a quick turnaround for a replacement chip. However, supply chain issues disrupted their release schedule last year.
It is possible that the M4 chip could debut on the iPad Pro, marking the first time a new chip appears on an iPad before any other device. The high-end iPad Pro is due for a refresh, and Apple has been blurring the line between the iPad and Mac in recent years. The addition of new silicon to the iPad Pro could further bridge that gap.
In addition to the new chip, the iPad Pro is also rumored to receive an upgrade to an OLED display. This upgrade is seen as crucial as the tablet category is currently experiencing a decline. Although Apple continues to dominate the market, overall tablet sales decreased by 10% last year. Therefore, Apple could use a boost from the new iPad Pro and its OLED display.
The iPad Air is also getting an update, with new models rumored to arrive in 11- and 12.9-inch versions. While these models are expected to receive the M2 chip, there is a possibility that they could also receive an additional bump if the M4 chip is announced at the event.
Another focus of the event is the Apple Pencil, which is said to be getting new features such as squeeze detection, haptic feedback, interchangeable magnet tips, and Find My support. These updates will enhance the functionality and usefulness of the stylus, which has become a popular accessory for iPad users.
As for Macs, it is speculated that Apple may sneak in a computer refresh or two with the arrival of the M4 chip. However, it is more likely that major additions to the Mac line will be saved for the Worldwide Developer Conference in June.
The “Let Loose” event is scheduled to begin at 7 a.m. PT/10 a.m. ET and can be watched live.