Apple Likely To Launch Foldable iPad In 2024 With Carbon Fibre Kickstand
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In good news for Apple fans, the US-based tech is reportedly planning to launch its first foldable iPad with a “carbon fibre kickstand" next year. According to the most recent information shared on Twitter by trusted Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, no new iPads will be released in the next nine to twelve months. In addition, the analyst predicts that a foldable iPad will be released in 2024.
Foldable iPad Coming in 2024 :
When it comes to iPad launches, Kuo previously hinted that the next one will be the iPad Mini in early 2024. He claims that mass production of the iPad Mini will begin in the first quarter of 2024, according to a recent report. The main selling point of this iPad would be the processor upgrade. Popular analyst Ming-Chi Kuo took to the micro-blogging platform Twitter and wrote: “I’m positive about the foldable iPad in 2024 and expect this new model will boost shipments and improve the product mix."
“My latest survey indicates that the foldable iPad will feature a carbon fibre kickstand. Carbon fibre material will make the kickstand lighter and more durable," he added.
Decline in iPad Shipments Predicted :
He also predicted that iPad shipments will have a year-on-year (YoY) decline of 10-15 per cent. Moreover, Kuo said that the iPhone maker might not release any new iPad in the next 9-12 months because “the iPad mini refresh is more likely to begin mass production" in the first quarter of next year. Considering Kuo's prediction that Apple will not be launching new iPads this year, he stated that iPad shipments in 2023 will see a YoY decline of 10-15%. However, shipments will pick up next year, with the new foldable iPad entering into the mix.
Features and Specifications :
Earlier, Kuo said a new processor will be the main selling point of the new iPad mini, suggesting that the device will receive only a spec bump. The current iPad mini released in September 2021 features an 8.3-inch display, A15 Bionic chip, USB-C port, Touch ID power button, and 5G support on cellular models. According to a report by The Elec, the display will measure 20.25 inches and will measure 15.3 inches when folded. It is reported that LG Display will use ultra-thin cover glass for the panel. An older prediction by Kuo indicates that Apple is developing an electronic paper display (EPD) technology for upcoming foldable devices. He added that this new tech offers better power-saving capabilities.
The use of carbon fiber material for the kickstand would make it lighter and more durable. We anticipate that it will support the foldable iPad’s various standing positions. Aside from that, not much is known about the upcoming foldable iPad. We believe Apple is experimenting with foldables with the announcement of the foldable iPad. Later, it may adopt the technology for iPhones.
In related news, the Cupertino-based tech company is extending its make in India strategy with plans to make AirPods in the country moving at a brisk pace. As per a Bloomberg report, the company is using its supplier Jabil Inc in the country to make components for the premium TWS earbuds from Apple and shipping them to China and Vietnam where the AirPods are made.
This might not sound like a big deal, especially since the main production is still based in China but Apple is slowly moving its production base from China, and views Vietnam and India as the best alternatives in the region. Making components for AirPods could be the first step before the whole product is ready to be manufactured in the country.