Apple Breaks 12-Year Tradition with No New iPad Releases in 2023
For the first time in 12 years, Apple has chosen not to release a new iPad in 2023, breaking a longstanding tradition of annual updates to its popular tablet line. Since its debut in 2010, the iPad has been a key product for Apple, consistently dominating the tablet market with at least one new model released every year. This marks the first time since the introduction of the product line that Apple has opted to not launch a new tablet in an entire calendar year.
The most recent iPad launches took place in October 2022, and the only iPad-adjacent hardware released in 2023 was the Apple Pencil with USB-C. This hiatus in new iPad releases is significant, given the history of the product line, and could signal a moment of reflection about the direction of the device. As the iPad has become more advanced and widely adopted, the urgency for frequent upgrades has diminished for many potential customers.
Another aspect to consider is the criticism Apple has faced regarding the increasing complexity of the iPad lineup and questions around the direction of iPadOS. By taking a year off from new releases, Apple may be planning to reshape the lineup with a clearer sense of purpose going forward.
Rumors and analyst forecasts suggest that 2024 will be a much more significant year for the iPad lineup. Every model, encompassing the entry-level iPad, iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro, is expected to receive a hardware refresh. With the rumored introduction of a 12.9-inch iPad Air model, 2024 could see Apple launch an unprecedented six iPad models in a single calendar year. The flagship iPad Pro is expected to introduce at least a dozen new features, including OLED display technology, the M3 chip, and a new, “laptop-like” keyboard accessory.
The tablet market and Apple enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the potential releases and upgrades that 2024 could bring to the iPad lineup.