November 22, 2024

Apple plans to discontinue this iPad model next year

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2023 was the first year in the last twelve years that Apple did not launch a new iPad. But Apple is preparing new models for release next year. With these new releases, Apple also plans to discontinue some older models as it tries to streamline the ever-growing iPad lineup.
Ten years ago, Apple’s iPad lineup was fairly simple, consisting of only two models – a big one and a small one.Then, there were previous year’s models available at a discount. In the coming years, Apple kept adding more options to appeal to different types of consumers and sell more tablets. As a result, the lineup became cluttered and confusing, with various models and generations to choose from.
Today, there are five iPads models – the Pro, Air, Mini, as well as the ninth and tenth generations of the regular iPad. Some models have marginally different screen sizes and similar features, making it challenging to decide which one to choose. Apple’s intention was to keep the iPad’s tremendous momentum going, but it came at the cost of making the iPad lineup puzzling, even for savvy consumers. And with declining sales, it seems like the time for a change in the iPad lineup.
9th generation iPad model could be discontinued next year
First, Apple plans to introduce new models next year. One of the changes includes adding an M2 chip to the next iPad Air model, and a larger second model is also said to be in the works for next year. Then, the iPad Pro, which was last refreshed in 2024, is also in for upgrades. Lastly, Apple plans its two-year-old 9th-generation model from the lineup, which has been sold alongside the newer 10th-generation model and still has the old design with a home button and chunky bezels. With this, Apple also plans to slowly phase out the 2015 Apple Pencil, as there will be no more Lightning port iPads for them to connect to.
iPad lineup in for upgrade next year
The iPad Pro will come in two sizes – 11 inches and 12.9 inches, as usual. The upcoming Pro models are said to come with the M3 chip. Then, the bigger 12.9-inch could have an OLED screen instead of the miniLED. There are also refreshed Magic Accessories in the works, which will only work with the newer Pro models.
iPad Air, too, will be available in two size options next year, having the same screen size as the Pro – 11-inch and 12.9-inch. Gurman speculates that the motive behind this move is to offer customers more options at different price points, as customers could get a bigger iPad without having to shell out money for a Pro model.
The new iPad Pro and Air models are expected to be announced in March 2024.
The 9th generation iPad might not be discontinued in March, but later in the year when Apple releases the 11th generation model. There is also a new iPad mini in development with a faster chip, which Gurman suggests will also launch later next year.



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