Apple is allegedly preparing to introduce new iPad models with a minor spec-bump as soon as Tuesday, but there are reasons to doubt the timetable.
iPad mini
The rumor mill has discussed iPads repeatedly in recent months, with a late 2023 launch turning into an early 2024 introduction for some models that may gain an OLED display. Now, it is believed by one report that an update to the iPad range will take place within days.
In a Saturday post, sources "familiar with Apple's media plans" who spoke to Supercharged said that Apple is planning briefings with "select media personnel" concerning the iPad. The sources also said an announcement could occur as early as October 17.
Those updates will consist of minor changes that boost the speed of the models, rather than any form of overhauling. This could include the iPad Air gaining the M2 chip, while the iPad mini could shift to the A16 Bionic.
Despite being relatively minor, the event could still take place in a video format, with the suggestion of it viewable on Apple's website and on YouTube. However, a "hybrid" event with visitors to Apple Park has been discounted.
Questionable timing
While the claim of a Tuesday could be handy for potential iPad upgraders, there is always a possibility the rumored event could not happen. The publication is new, and has no track record as it pertains to their own rumors about Apple's product cycle. Other venues have since chimed in, and said that they corroborated it with their own sources.
In Mark Gurman's weekly newsletter, he appears skeptical about the rumor of a Tuesday announcement.
"While I reported in July that Apple was planning such a release this year, the latest indications are that it won't happen this month," writes Gurman on Sunday morning. "A new entry-level iPad, iPad Air and iPad mini are all in development with faster chips, but I don't believe updates of any significance are imminent."
According to TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, it was "unlikely" that Apple would make updates to the iPad lineup before the end of 2023.
AppleInsider has attempted to determine if an event will take place. Typical indicators of a launch, such as a block on employee time-off requests for specific days, aren't in effect on this occasion. While blocked days aren't entirely reliable to indicate a product launch, their lack of presence two days before a debut, and presumably five before the availability puts the release into doubt.