Apple rumoured to launch a foldable iPad in 2024

Apple might be ready to launch a folding tablet soon. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claims the iPhone maker will launch a foldable table in 2024. As Inverse pointed out, it seems like an unusual move given how Apple typically takes a bit more time before launching a new product category. Apple has been rumoured to be working on foldable devices since 2022. But Kuo has been somewhat reliable with his predictions, so it might be time to make a countdown for this product launch. In the meantime, the heavily rumoured Apple device coming is a mixed-reality headset. We are expecting to see that new product this year.

Apple is reportedly not working on a new HomePod mini

With the recent launch of the HomePod, it doesn't seem like a new version of the HomePod mini will come out. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports that Apple isn't likely to work on a new version of its smaller speaker. Gurman pointed out in his Power On newsletter that the company didn't introduce any major new functions in the updated HomePod, so it's unlikely Apple will introduce a new HomePod mini without any significant upgrades. Apple first introduced the HomePod mini in 2020 during the iPhone 12 launch.

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Apple tipped to release low-end iPad to serve as a smart home display

Apple is reportedly planning to release a low-end version of the iPad with the sole purpose of using it for smart home management. This display can be used for controlling HomeKit devices, streaming video, or making FaceTime calls, among others.

It'll be built for wall mounts or attached to other surfaces with magnetic fasteners. You can think of it as Apple's answer to the Meta Portal or the Echo Show. The company is reportedly targeting a 2024 launch for this smart home display.

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Apple's augmented reality glasses are shelved for now

For now, augmented reality tech in Apple products is limited to devices like the iPad and iPhone

Apple's rumoured augmented reality glasses will not come out anytime soon. Bloomberg reports that the project has been on hold indefinitely. It was supposed to follow up another rumoured device, the high-end mixed reality headset expected later this year. The company has supposedly faced "technical challenges" in developing these glasses. So, Apple is supposedly shifting its focus on developing the mixed reality headset.

The one expected to launch this year would supposedly cost around US$,3000 with dedicated VR hardware and a desktop-like M2 CPU like those in the new MacBook Pro and Mac mini. But then Apple is supposedly working on a more affordable option with iPhone-like hardware coming in 2024 or 2025 with a starting price closer to US$1,500.

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