Apple Spring Loaded Event: What to Expect

Apple Event Anticipation: What to Expect Tomorrow

It’s an Apple Event! The era of extended advance notice for these events is seemingly over, particularly with the shift to virtual presentations (a trend likely to continue through 2022). The company announced the event just last week.

Fortunately, numerous rumors have circulated leading up to tomorrow’s presentation—and the event invitation itself may offer some clues. Having skipped the spring event last year due to rising COVID-19 cases in the U.S., Apple now appears comfortable hosting regular livestreamed events. We will provide full coverage of the event as it unfolds, beginning at 10AM PT/1PM ET. Here’s a preview of what we anticipate, alongside the signature high-production-value visuals.

New iPads: A Near Certainty

The most reliable prediction is the unveiling of new iPad models, aligning with the finger-drawn imagery featured on the event invite. The iPad Pro is expected to lead the way. Rumors suggest a refresh of the high-end tablet has been planned for this season, making this the opportune moment.

Mini-LED Display Technology

The most significant upgrade anticipated is the inclusion of a mini-LED display for the 12.9-inch model. A refresh of the 11-inch model is also expected at a later date. This technology promises increased brightness, improved battery efficiency, and reduced risk of image burn-in, replacing the OLED displays currently used in iPhones.

It’s been reported that this improved screen technology may slightly increase the device’s thickness, though the overall design will remain largely consistent. Potential supply chain limitations could lead to an announcement followed by a delayed release.

Performance Boost with A14X Chip

A processor upgrade is also likely. The rumored A14X chip is expected to leverage the same technology underpinning the M1 chip found in recent Mac computers. This could deliver a substantial performance improvement.

iPad Mini: A Long-Awaited Update

The 8.4-inch iPad mini is also expected to receive a significant update, its first major revision in two years. The changes are anticipated to be less dramatic than those coming to the Pro models. The classic iPad mini design will likely be retained, but the device is expected to benefit from a performance increase thanks to new chips.

A new Apple Pencil is also rumored to be in development, though specific details remain limited.

AirTags and Beyond

The launch of AirTags appears increasingly likely. After several delays, Apple’s Tile competitor is expected to finally be unveiled. The timing aligns with the company’s recent opening up of the “Find My” network to third-party devices, including the Chipolo ONE Spot.

A new Apple TV with a Find My-compatible remote is also a possibility, addressing the common issue of lost remotes. Furthermore, with Apple on a two-year refresh cycle for its product lines, updates to the iMac line could be announced.