It shouldn't be long before Apple introduces new iPads: it should be in March or April, according to the rumor mill. Now, shortly before publication, further hardware details have been leaked, including the housing of the new Pro models and their screen. The new information comes from a Chinese leaker who has been correct several times in the past.
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iPad Pro 15 percent thinner?
According to the information from “Instant Digital” on Weibo, the housing of the two devices will be significantly thinner at 11 and 12.9 inches. The 11-inch model has 7.12 mm and the 12.9-inch model has 7.08 mm. That would be a decrease of 10 or even 15 percent compared to the last generation from 2022, whose form factor dates back to 2018. According to “Instant Digital”, this is possible thanks to the OLED screens now installed in the Pro models, which require less space than their LCD predecessors.
The leaker also knows information about the screen areas with and without edges. These are 175.51 mm by 247.7 mm or 161.11 mm by 233.3 mm for the 11-inch model and 213.52 mm by 279.57 mm or 199 for the 12.9-inch model. 15mm by 265.2mm. “Instant Digital” does not name any sources for its information, but it appears to have contacts in Apple’s supply chain.
Matte for more color fidelity
Even more interesting than the thinner casing is a second piece of information, which also comes from the Weibo leaker. It says that Apple will allow customers to choose the type of screen for the first time. Instead of just the typical “glossy” version, a matt version is also available for the first time – probably at an additional cost. Apple apparently wants to appeal to professionals who expect better color fidelity on their tablets. So far, Apple has already offered “standard glass” and “nanotexture glass” for its Mac displays, but there is no choice for tablets.
According to “Instant Digital”, the matte display option should also integrate a blue light filter. It is still unclear whether it will be Apple's nanotexture or another material. The latter is comparatively sensitive; Apple even includes its own cleaning cloth.
(bsc)