Apple Stock News: New Magic Keyboard
Apple Stock News: Apple is planning to release an updated Magic Keyboard for new 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models. The new Magic Keyboard for the iPad Air will incorporate some of the new features that were added to the latest Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro, which was released in May. This implies that potential features for the next iPad Air version of the accessory could include a thinner and lighter design with an aluminum palm rest, a larger glass trackpad, and a row of function keys with shortcuts for things like display brightness and volume adjustment.
Will a HomePod Mini 2 Launch This Year?
Apple launched the HomePod mini almost four years ago, but significant updates have not yet been announced. According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, mass production of a second-generation HomePod mini might commence in the second half of 2024. Potential improvements could involve a newer S-series chip, a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, and new color options. However, it remains undetermined whether these rumors are valid due to the absence of recent leaks concerning the HomePod mini.
Expectation Reduction
Apple’s M4 iPad Pro models with OLED displays are facing weak demand since their introduction in the second quarter, according to a new analyst report.Initially expected to sell up to 10 million units in 2024, the new 11-inch and 13-inch models now face a dramatically lowered forecast of just 6.7 million units. Analyst Ross Young predicts decreases of 40% and 30% in the third and fourth quarters, respectively, for the 11-inch model, while the 13-inch model faces even steeper declines. Factors contributing to the lukewarm reception include high prices, starting at $999 for the 11.1-inch model and $1,299 for the 13-inch version, potentially deterring buyers who see tablets as secondary devices. Additionally, the limitations of Apple’s iPadOS software may hinder sales.
Questions arise regarding the viability of OLED technology in supporting Apple’s premium pricing for tablets, particularly given the challenges posed by the price difference between OLED and mini-LED technologies in the tablet market. Concerns exist that the iPad Air’s transition from LCD to OLED could be delayed due to slow sales of OLED iPad Pro models. Despite these concerns, Young remains optimistic about the future of OLED in Apple’s MacBook lineup, predicting a shift from mini-LED to OLED for certain MacBook Pro models as early as 2026.