Apple is reportedly working on a massive 16-inch iPad that could release sometime next year. The largest iPad in Apple's current portfolio is the 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2022), announced earlier this month. The device is powered by the M2 chip and comes with up to 16GB of RAM and up to 2TB of built-in storage. The new iPad Pro also comes with Mini LED display technology, supporting Apple's 'ProMotion' 120Hz refresh rate. It also offers a 'Hover' functionality that allows the tablets to detect the Apple Pencil when positioned slightly above the screen.
However, 12.9-inch won't be the largest screen size in Apple's iPad lineup for long, as the company is also said to be working on another iPad with a 14.1-inch screen, possibly with more multitasking features. Tipster Ross Young first leaked news about that device in June. They claimed that Apple could market the large iPad as an alternative to traditional laptops. Young also said the device could be due for an early 2023 release. Little is known about the rumored 14.1-inch iPad, but according to Young, it will have mini LEDs and ProMotion technology.
According to The Information, Apple could launch a 16-inch iPad next year. The tentative time frame is said to be Q4 2023, but that could change based on several factors. For example, the device still seems to be in the planning stage, as the report claims it might not even see the light of day. In addition, there are no details about the device's possible tech specs, but it will likely be marketed under the iPad Pro branding if it does make it through to production.
Large-Screen iPad Coming Next Year?
With so many different reports about larger iPads, it is very likely that Apple is indeed working on something larger than its staple 12.9-inch models. However, whether the 14.1-inch and 16-inch models will co-exist in Apple's portfolio remains to be seen. As things stand now, both could make it to the market, or only one could make the cut. However, it is unlikely that neither will make it to the retail shelves, as Apple seems eager to launch a large-screen iPad and market it as a laptop replacement.
Meanwhile, alongside the pricey iPad Pro models, Apple this month also announced the base 10th-gen iPad that brings multiple changes and improvements over its predecessor. It features a 10.9-inch IPS LED Liquid Retina display with a 2360 × 1640 resolution. It is powered by the A14 Bionic chipset and comes with 64GB or 256GB of built-in storage. Apple's new base iPad also retains the Touch ID scanner found in the 9th-gen model but drops the 3.5mm headphone socket.
Source: The Information