Apple Expected to Unveil New MacBooks This Week, iPad Refresh Coming Soon

Apple is gearing up to update its popular MacBook Air lineup with new models powered by the highly anticipated M4 chip. Reports indicate that the tech giant may introduce these refreshed laptops as early as this week. If the rumors hold true, this release will mark another milestone in Apple’s transition to its in-house silicon chips, further improving performance and power efficiency.

Apple is expected to maintain the same sleek design as the M3 MacBook Air, which was launched on March 4, 2024, focusing solely on upgrading the internal hardware. The M4 chip is likely to bring enhanced processing power, improved battery life, and better graphics performance, making the MacBook Air an even more compelling choice for students, professionals, and casual users alike.

Potential iPad Air and Entry-Level iPad Refresh

Alongside the MacBook Air updates, Apple is also rumored to refresh its iPad lineup. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has reported that stock levels for the iPad Air and the entry-level iPad have declined at Apple Stores, a strong indication that a refresh is on the horizon.

The upcoming iPad Air is speculated to feature the M3 chipset, which would significantly enhance its performance for multitasking and creative applications. However, there is also a slight possibility that Apple could introduce the powerful A17 Pro chip instead, bringing desktop-class performance to the iPad Air.

As for the entry-level iPad, Apple may equip it with the A16 Bionic chip—the same processor found in the non-Pro models of the iPhone 15 series. If implemented, this upgrade would offer notable speed improvements, better AI processing, and enhanced power efficiency compared to previous generations.

Expected Launch Timeline for iPads

Unlike the MacBook Air, which could launch this week, Apple may delay the release of the new iPads until later this month. The company last updated its iPad lineup in May 2024, introducing the M4-powered iPad Pro with support for the Apple Pencil Pro. Apple also launched a redesigned iPad Air lineup, which included an 11-inch and an all-new 13-inch model, both featuring the M2 chip.

If Apple follows its usual launch strategy, the new iPad Air and entry-level iPad could be announced via press release rather than a major event, much like previous incremental updates.

Apple iPad Pro Refresh Could Be Delayed Until M5 Chip

While the iPad Air and entry-level iPad are due for a refresh, reports suggest that Apple may postpone the launch of a new iPad Pro until the M5 chip is ready. The M5 chip is expected to bring substantial improvements in performance and energy efficiency, making it a worthy upgrade for professional users.

If the speculation is accurate, Apple could release the M5-powered iPad Pro later this year or early 2025, aligning with its long-term chip roadmap.

What to Expect from Apple’s Upcoming MacBook and iPad Launches

• MacBook Air with M4 Chip: Likely to maintain the existing design but with better performance and battery life.

• iPad Air with M3 or A17 Pro Chip: Expected to receive a significant performance boost.

• Entry-Level iPad with A16 Bionic: A more powerful and efficient model compared to its predecessor.

• Delayed iPad Pro Refresh: The next iPad Pro may launch later with the M5 chip.

Conclusion

Apple continues to refine its MacBook and iPad lineup, ensuring that each model meets evolving consumer demands. With the MacBook Air refresh expected this week and new iPads likely arriving later this month, Apple enthusiasts have a lot to look forward to. Additionally, the potential M5-powered iPad Pro later this year could be a game-changer in the tablet market.

Stay tuned for official announcements from Apple as these anticipated product launches unfold.