Apple’s Latest Launch Week: What Was Announced and What’s Still Missing

Apple recently completed a busy launch window that introduced several new devices across its ecosystem. Before the announcements, Mark Gurman predicted in his newsletter that Apple might reveal multiple products between March 2 and March 4.

The list included potential updates to iPhones, MacBooks, and iPads. As it turns out, Apple delivered most of those expected releases, and even added a couple of surprises. However, one device that many people expected to see is still missing.

The Devices Apple Announced

During the launch window, Apple introduced several products across different categories.

Key announcements included:

• iPhone 17e

• MacBook Air M5

• MacBook Pro M5 models

• Updated iPad Air M4

• New Studio Display

• Premium Studio Display XDR

Apple also introduced a new MacBook Neo, a lower-cost laptop powered by an iPhone-class chip designed for everyday computing tasks.

This lineup shows Apple focusing on a wide range of users—from budget buyers to professionals who need high-performance hardware.

The Missing Device: Entry-Level iPad

One product that didn’t appear during the announcements was the next generation of Apple’s entry-level iPad.

Many expected Apple to unveil the iPad 12, which would follow the current iPad 11 released in March 2025.

The iPad 11 currently runs on the A16 chip and starts at $349 in the United States. For now, it appears that Apple is holding back the next version for a later announcement.

What We Expect From the iPad 12

Even though the device hasn’t been announced yet, several rumors suggest what improvements the next entry-level iPad might include. Potential upgrades could feature:

• A faster A18 chip or possibly the A19 chip

• Support for Apple Intelligence

Apple Intelligence is already available on many of Apple’s newer devices, including the iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro.

Adding AI capabilities to the entry-level iPad would bring it more in line with the rest of Apple’s current tablet lineup.

Aside from the new processor and AI features, reports suggest the device will likely maintain the same design as the current model.

Why Apple Might Be Waiting

Apple often spreads product launches throughout the year rather than releasing everything at once. Holding back the entry-level iPad could allow the company to generate additional attention during a later event.

Another possibility is that Apple is finalizing hardware changes or software features before the device is ready for production.

Until Apple officially announces the next model, the current iPad 11 remains the most affordable option in Apple’s tablet lineup.

Upgrading to a New Apple Device? Smart Transfer Can Help

Whenever Apple launches new devices, many users consider upgrading their phones or tablets. One of the biggest challenges during an upgrade is safely moving personal data, such as photos, contacts, videos, and documents, to the new device. This is where Smart Transfer, a third-party transfer app, can help simplify the process.

Smart Transfer allows users to copy phone file data wirelessly between devices, making it easier to migrate important information when switching to a new phone. Whether you're upgrading to the latest iPhone or transferring files between smartphones, the app helps ensure that your data moves quickly and securely.

Using a reliable transfer app like Smart Transfer can make the upgrade process smoother, allowing you to start using your new device without worrying about losing important files.

Final Thoughts

Apple’s recent launch window delivered several new devices, including updated MacBooks, iPhones, and displays. While the company met most expectations, the absence of a new entry-level iPad was notable.

The rumored iPad 12 could still arrive later this year, potentially bringing improved performance and Apple Intelligence features to Apple’s most affordable tablet. Until then, users will have to wait a little longer for Apple’s next tablet update.