Display Panel Shipments Hint at Upcoming 12.9-inch iPad Air

Ross Young, CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC), has reported that the display panels for the rumored 12.9-inch iPad Air have commenced shipping.

The display panels for the iPad Air, specifically the 12.9-inch version, have begun shipping, with an anticipated public reveal slated for the spring of next year. This addition offers an expanded choice of large-screen displays, a notable development in technology, new products, and trends.

Previously, Ming-Chi Kuo, an analyst at TF International Securities, noted that Apple is preparing to launch an iPad Air featuring a 12.9-inch display. This new iPad Air is expected to utilize the same oxide backplane technology as the mini-LED display of the iPad Pro, thereby appealing to those desiring a larger screen without the need for the iPad Pro’s advanced hardware capabilities.

Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the revamped 12.9-inch iPad Air is projected to debut at the spring event in 2024, serving as an additional option alongside the existing 10.9-inch model. Regarding the iPad Pro line, it is anticipated that the existing mini-LED displays will transition to OLED specifications, coupled with the integration of the M3 processor. Adjustments to the exterior design are also expected, with mass production likely commencing between the end of the first quarter and the second quarter of 2024. Furthermore, with Apple’s plan to introduce a 12.9-inch option for the iPad Air, the pricing for the new iPad Pro series is expected to increase, potentially accelerating the clearance of existing iPad Pro models.

As for the entry-level iPad (11th generation), it is projected to enter mass production in the latter half of 2024, with the updated iPad mini’s production timeline also anticipated to be postponed to the second half of 2024.