Apple's AI push reportedly starts with the iPad Pro

Apple’s Johny Srouji introduces new Mac chips (Photo: Brooks Kraft/Apple)

Apple is accelerating its chip development, with the next-generation M4 set to debut this year in iMacs, MacBook Pros, and Mac minis. The M4 boasts a significantly upgraded Neural Engine, paving the way for powerful new AI features. But there's more: there's a strong possibility the upcoming iPad Pro will also sport the M4, making it Apple's first truly AI-powered device. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman talks about the possibility in the newest edition of his Power On newsletter.

This strategic move aligns with the booming AI trend in tech. By supposedly unveiling the iPad Pro before its June Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), Apple can showcase its AI chip strategy without overshadowing other announcements. 

At WWDC, the focus can then shift to how the M4 and iPad Pro will leverage the AI features coming in iPadOS 18 later this year. We can expect a similar emphasis on AI with the A18 chip in the upcoming iPhone 16 lineup.

However, it's important to note that AI isn't the sole focus of this hardware upgrade. While marketing will undoubtedly highlight the AI capabilities, these chips represent a broader performance leap. Even more groundbreaking hardware advancements are likely still on the horizon.