Apple Let Loose Event Details: What Was Announced

Apple’s “Let Loose” event, held on May 7, 2024, was a 38-minute pre-recorded presentation that focused entirely on the iPad lineup. It introduced new iPad Pro and iPad Air models, along with the M4 chip, an updated Apple Pencil Pro, and a redesigned Magic Keyboard. This article details everything announced, the key specs, pricing, and what it means for you.

Background: Why the Event Was Significant

Apple typically holds a spring event to refresh its iPad and Mac lines. The “Let Loose” event was notable because it marked the first major iPad update since 2022, and it was the first time Apple announced a new chip (the M4) at a non-WWDC event. The event also signaled a clearer separation between the iPad Pro (now the most powerful tablet) and the iPad Air (now available in two sizes), giving consumers a more defined choice.

New iPad Pro: Thinner, Lighter, with M4 Chip

The headline announcement was the new iPad Pro, available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes. It features the M4 chip, which Apple claims delivers a 50% faster CPU and 4x faster GPU compared to the M2. The design is dramatically thinner—the 13-inch model is just 5.1mm thick, making it the thinnest Apple product ever. The display was upgraded to an Ultra Retina XDR (OLED) panel, with an optional nano-texture glass for reduced glare. The front camera was moved to the landscape edge, and the base storage was doubled to 256GB.

iPad Air: Now in Two Sizes

For the first time, the iPad Air is available in two sizes: 11-inch and a new 13-inch model. It uses the M2 chip, which is a significant upgrade from the M1 in the previous generation. The Air also received the landscape front camera and supports the new Apple Pencil Pro. It remains the more affordable option for those who want a large screen without the Pro’s price tag.

Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard

Two new accessories were introduced. The Apple Pencil Pro adds a squeeze gesture (to open a tool palette), a barrel roll (to rotate shapes), and haptic feedback. It also works with the Find My app. The new Magic Keyboard features a thinner and lighter design, a larger trackpad with haptic feedback, and a row of function keys. Both accessories are compatible with the new iPad Pro and iPad Air models.

Pricing and Availability

Pricing is as follows (in USD, for base models):

• iPad Pro 11-inch: $999 (Wi-Fi), $1,199 (Cellular)
• iPad Pro 13-inch: $1,299 (Wi-Fi), $1,499 (Cellular)
• iPad Air 11-inch: $599 (Wi-Fi), $749 (Cellular)
• iPad Air 13-inch: $799 (Wi-Fi), $949 (Cellular)
• Apple Pencil Pro: $129
• Magic Keyboard: $299 (11-inch), $349 (13-inch)

Pre-orders opened on May 7, and devices shipped starting May 15, 2024.

How to Choose: Pro vs. Air vs. Older Models

Choosing between the new models depends on your needs:

• iPad Pro: Best for professionals who need the M4 chip for video editing, 3D design, or AI tasks. The OLED display is also a major upgrade for artists and photographers.
• iPad Air: Ideal for students, note-takers, and general users who want a powerful tablet without the Pro’s premium price. The M2 chip is still overkill for most tasks.
• Older iPads: If you already have an M1-based iPad, the upgrade may not be necessary unless you need the OLED display or the new Pencil Pro.

Common Problems and Misconceptions

One common misconception is that the M4 chip is exclusive to the iPad Pro—that’s true, but it’s a variant of the M4, not the same as the one in the MacBook Pro. Another issue is that the new Apple Pencil Pro is not compatible with older iPads, and the 2nd-gen Apple Pencil doesn’t work with the new Pro/Air models. Also, the nano-texture glass option is only available on the 1TB and 2TB iPad Pro models, and it adds $100 to the price.

Comparison: M4 vs. M2 vs. M1

For context, the M4 chip in the new iPad Pro is a significant leap. It’s built on a 3nm process, has a 10-core CPU, and a 10-core GPU. The M2 in the iPad Air is a previous-generation chip, but it’s still very fast. The M1 in older iPads is now two generations behind, but it remains capable for most apps. If you’re coming from an A12 or A14 chip, the jump to M2 or M4 will be massive.

Cost Considerations: Is It Worth Upgrading?

The new iPad Pro is expensive, but it’s also the most capable tablet Apple has ever made. For creative professionals, the OLED display and M4 chip justify the cost. For most consumers, the iPad Air offers 90% of the experience at 60% of the price. If you’re on a budget, consider the previous-generation iPad Air or iPad (10th gen), which are still sold. Also, note that the new Magic Keyboard and Pencil Pro add significant cost, so factor that into your total.

Safety and Compatibility

There are no new safety concerns with the hardware itself, but you should be aware of compatibility. The new iPad Pro and Air use a USB-C connector, so older Lightning accessories won’t work. The new Pencil Pro charges wirelessly by attaching to the side of the iPad. Also, the nano-texture glass is more delicate and should only be cleaned with the included polishing cloth. Always update to iPadOS 17.5 or later to ensure full functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When was the Apple Let Loose event?
A: The event was held on May 7, 2024, at 7:00 AM Pacific Time. It was a pre-recorded video streamed on Apple’s website and YouTube.

Q: What was announced at the Let Loose event?
A: Apple announced the new iPad Pro (11-inch and 13-inch) with the M4 chip, the iPad Air (11-inch and 13-inch) with the M2 chip, the Apple Pencil Pro, and a new Magic Keyboard.

Q: Is the M4 chip only in the iPad Pro?
A: Yes, the M4 chip is exclusive to the new iPad Pro models. The iPad Air uses the M2 chip.

Q: Does the Apple Pencil Pro work with older iPads?
A: No, the Apple Pencil Pro is only compatible with the new iPad Pro (M4) and iPad Air (M2) models. It will not work with earlier iPads.

Q: What is the price of the new iPad Air?
A: The 11-inch iPad Air starts at $599, and the 13-inch starts at $799.

Q: When did the new iPads ship?
A: Pre-orders began on May 7, and the devices were available starting May 15, 2024.

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