1. Next generation iPad may feature M4 chip and AI-focused features with iPadOS 18
2. Updated iPad lineup at Let Loose event likely won’t include AI features, will focus on hardware improvements
3. Future iPads expected in the fall to have heavy AI focus with improved image editing, Siri, and customization features
Apple’s next generation iPad is rumored to feature the powerful AI-first M4 chip and iPadOS 18 will heavily utilize locally running AI models, leading to new privacy-focused and AI-powered features like improved transcription and image editing capabilities. However, these features may not be part of the updated iPad lineup expected at the Let Loose event on May 7, with updates to iPadOS and the Apple Silicon chipset likely coming at WWDC in June.
Future iPads, expected in the fall, will have a strong focus on AI thanks to the M4-series chips capable of running powerful AI loads on device. Even current iPads are able to handle tasks like image generation and video editing, hinting at the potential for the next generation of AI tablets from Apple.
Expected updates to the current family of iPads at Let Loose may include better screens, the M3 chip, and general hardware improvements, branding them as AI capable. However, the true AI tablet may still be on the horizon as Apple continues to improve integration of third-party models, image editing capabilities, Spotlight search functionality, Siri, and customization options with AI technology likely to be core features of future iPadOS releases.
While some features like GenAI in Photos, an improved Siri, and deeper AI integration into the operating system are expected, other changes may come from developers rather than Apple. Rumors of an AI App Store and new APIs for developers may lead to high profile third-party integrations and AI upgrades in Apple’s own apps, with larger system changes likely to come in future updates like iPadOS 19.