Apple is already making waves in 2025, with new iPads hitting the market and hints of what's to come. But some decisions, like the exclusion of Apple Intelligence from the latest standard iPad, have left observers scratching their heads. Let's break down what's happening with Apple in 2025, from new devices to event predictions.
The iPad Lineup: What's New?
Apple's iPad lineup continues to expand, offering a range of options for different needs and budgets. The updated iPad Air and entry-level iPad are now available, featuring the faster M3 and A16 chips respectively. The iPad Air comes in both 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, and works with a revised Magic Keyboard. The base iPad now starts with 128GB of storage. These updates bring performance improvements, but the latest standard iPad comes with a surprise.
One notable absence in the new standard iPad is support for Apple Intelligence, Apple's AI platform. This is particularly surprising given Apple's recent emphasis on AI, even to the point of discontinuing the lower-priced iPhone SE in favor of more powerful (and expensive) models capable of running Apple Intelligence. The new iPad does get more storage though, starting at 128GB, a welcome upgrade.
"Perhaps the requirements of Apple Intelligence – 8GB of RAM and an A18 or better processor – were simply too big a jump for the base iPad,"
...suggests one analyst. It's also possible Apple believes the tablet market is primarily focused on entertainment and less demanding tasks, making AI support less of a priority for the base model.
Navigating the iPad Landscape
Choosing the right iPad can be daunting. Apple's lineup includes multiple 11-inch and 13-inch tablets, along with the compact iPad mini. Key differences lie in pricing, specifications, and accessory support. Consider what you'll primarily use the iPad for: is it a laptop replacement, a streaming device, or something in between?
The iPad Air offers a step up from the base iPad, featuring a more powerful M2 chip (in older models) or M3 (in the newest models), more RAM, and a fully laminated display. It also supports newer accessories like the Pencil Pro and a more comfortable Magic Keyboard. The 10th-gen iPad remains a more affordable option, but with some trade-offs in performance and features.
Apple Events in 2025: What to Expect
Looking ahead, Apple's event schedule for 2025 is taking shape. While the company often launches products via press release, major announcements are typically reserved for dedicated events. Here's what we can anticipate:
- WWDC (Worldwide Developers Conference): Expected in June, WWDC is where Apple unveils the latest versions of its operating systems, including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS. We may also see new Mac hardware targeted at power users.
- September iPhone Event: This is the traditional time for Apple to announce new iPhones and Apple Watches. In 2025, we anticipate the iPhone 17, Apple Watch 11, and potentially a new Apple Watch Ultra and Apple Watch SE.
- October Event: While not always a certainty, Apple has historically used October to update certain Macs. This could be when we see new Macs running M5 chips.
As always, Apple's plans can change, but these are the general trends to expect. Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to these events.
Beyond Apple, other tech companies are also making strides. Boult Audio, for example, recently launched the Boult Drift Max smartwatch in India, offering Bluetooth calling and health tracking features at a budget-friendly price. This shows the diversity in the tech landscape and the different needs being met by various companies.
Final Thoughts
Apple's 2025 is shaping up to be an interesting year, with new iPads, evolving AI strategies, and the promise of exciting product launches to come. Whether you're an Apple enthusiast or simply interested in the latest tech trends, there's plenty to keep an eye on.