Apple fans have been eagerly anticipating the arrival of new iPads, with the latest updates dating back to 2022. The long wait may soon be over, as reports from reliable sources indicate that the iPad Pro 2024 and the iPad Air 6 are set to be unveiled on March 26.

Chinese leaders, including Instant Digital and the site ITHome, have both pointed towards this date. While ITHome suggests that cases for the new tablets will go on sale as early as March 26, MacRumors notes that this could be a strong indication of the official launch day.

Although the announcement date is nearing, consumers might have to exercise patience as the actual shipment of these tablets may be delayed. According to tech analyst Mark Gurman, the devices will ship with the latest iPadOS 17.4, which is expected to be finalized by the end of March. This means that the products might not be available for purchase until the second half of April.

Nevertheless, speculation surrounds a possible March 26 announcement, followed by pre-orders opening shortly after. Rumours from reliable sources like Ross Young indicate that the iPad Pro 2024 is set to debut in late March or early April, with shipments commencing in April.

The highly-anticipated iPad Pro 2024 is rumoured to feature significant upgrades, including Apple’s first OLED display on a tablet, a powerful M3 chipset, a landscape-oriented front camera, and the possibility of wireless charging through MagSafe.

A Surprising Omission

While the iPad Pro 2024 promises these exciting advancements, the iPad Air 6 might not bring the same level of innovation. Reports suggest that the main change in the lineup was expected to be the introduction of a larger 12.9-inch model. However, renowned leaker ShrimpApplePro speculates that only a 10.9-inch version, similar to the existing model, will be available.

The absence of any production activity for the 12.9-inch variant in Vietnam has led to doubts about its existence, with indications that the larger model may be in production in China instead. While the larger iPad Air model has been extensively leaked, uncertainties remain about its actual release.

Leaked information further suggests that the iPad Air 6 will feature a landscape-oriented selfie camera but retain its current design aesthetics. Additionally, there are speculations that out of the existing colour options (Space Gray, Starlight, Pink, Purple, and Blue), either Pink or Blue may be omitted from the new model, with a new colour likely to be introduced.

Despite the varying speculations and rumours, it is becoming increasingly evident that the iPad Pro 2024 and iPad Air 6 are set for imminent release.