Apple’s 12.9-inch iPad Air is tipped to feature an LCD panel just like the 5th generation iPad Air model

Apple is expected to launch a new iPad Air in two display sizes at its upcoming unveiling next month, along with new iPad Pro models that may feature OLED screens. An analyst has just leaked details of the larger iPad Air variant, contradicting their previous claims that Apple will upgrade the display technology used on the alleged tablet using leftover panels from the company’s iPad Pro. Apple is now expected to equip the 10.9-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Air with the same displays.

Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC) CEO and co-founder Ross Young has contradicted his previous prediction that Apple would equip its rumored 12.9-inch iPad Air with a Mini-LED screen, thanks to leftover panels from the 12.9-inch iPad Pro. According to earlier reports, Apple is likely to upgrade the iPad Pro with OLED screens, while the size of the displays is expected to increase slightly.

Now the parser states (through MacRumors) in a subscriber only post of X (formerly Twitter) that both iPad Air variants will be equipped with IPS LCD screens, just like their predecessor, the iPad Air (5th generation). In addition, Young says the decision was made due to the high costs associated with the panel upgrade.

Following Young’s previous prediction, Apple has announced that it will hold a launch event called “Let loose” on May 7, where it is expected to launch new iPad Pro and iPad Air models. The Cupertino company is also expected to introduce a new Apple Pencil with support for new “squeeze” gestures. The input device is also said to allow owners to track the device via the company’s Find My network. In particular, Apple’s artwork for the event depicts the Apple Pencil surrounded by colors in the company’s logo.

Instead of repurposing its leftover Mini-LED panels on the rumored 12.9-inch iPad Air model, Apple could introduce a new iPad later this year, according to Young. There is currently no mention of whether this will be an iPad Pro or iPad Air model. The analyst says that Apple is likely to launch this model in Q4 2024.