Upcoming M3 iPad Pro may cost less than initial rumors claimed
DigiTimes suggests that Apple’s upcoming iPad Pro models featuring OLED displays may see a more conservative increase in prices compared to initial rumors, with the speculated increment being up to $160. This contrasts with earlier, more exaggerated reports that had anticipated a more substantial surge in the device’s pricing.
As of now, the 11-inch iPad Pro starts at $799, while the 12.9-inch model, equipped with a mini-LED display, begins at $1,099. Initial predictions had hinted at a potential starting price of $1,500 for the next-gen 11-inch OLED iPad Pro and $1,800 for the 13-inch model. Some reports had even suggested prices reaching up to $2,000, possibly tied to higher storage configurations for the larger variant.
Although DigiTimes doesn’t disclose the source of its $160 price increase information, if accurate, it could mean that the base price of the 11-inch OLED iPad Pro remains below $1,000, while the 13-inch model could start at approximately $1,200 to $1,300.
The rise in costs is attributed to the adoption of OLED panels, a departure from Apple’s previous iPad displays. OLED panels are generally more expensive compared to LCD panels, and Apple’s specific requirements, such as a thin design using a tandem-stack approach, contribute to the higher cost. The OLED panels are reportedly being supplied by Samsung and LG Display, who are said to be developing these specialized two-stack tandem OLED panels exclusively for Apple.
The upcoming iPad Pro models are anticipated to be equipped with Apple’s latest M3 chips. There’s speculation about the inclusion of MagSafe charging, and a refreshed version of the Magic Keyboard is expected, featuring a larger trackpad to give the iPad Pro a more laptop-like appearance.
The launch of the new iPad Air and iPad Pro models, along with accompanying accessories, is projected to take place around the end of March.