Apple Event Unveils New iPad Pro with MacBook Air-like Features

Apple made a big splash at its Tuesday iPad event by starting off with a major accomplishment in its MacBook line. The tech giant proudly announced that the MacBook Air is the world’s bestselling 13-inch and 15-inch laptop, setting the stage for the unveiling of the new iPad Air and Pro models.

The iPad Air received a significant upgrade with a larger 13-inch screen and the powerful M2 chip with AI features. The front-facing camera has been repositioned to the horizontal side, making it more reminiscent of a laptop than an iPhone. Storage capacity has doubled to 128 GB, with prices starting at $599 for the 11-inch model and $799 for the new 13-inch version.

Meanwhile, the iPad Pro also saw improvements, including a new 13-inch version and a horizontal front-facing camera. It is equipped with the all-new M4 chip, which Apple claims is an “outrageously powerful chip for AI” with superior performance and energy efficiency.

In addition to the new iPad models, Apple introduced upgrades to accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil, which now feature haptic feedback and enhanced functionality. The company emphasized the sleekness and power of the new devices, positioning them as a viable alternative to traditional laptops.

With iPad shipments declining last year, Apple is banking on the appeal of these new models to reignite interest in its tablet line. The new iPads are available for pre-order now and are set to ship next week, with Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference scheduled for next month.