Apple's iPad event: rumour round


The rumour mill is in full force, but how much of it will eventuate? Photo: Mashable


This post was originally published on Mashable.

Apple season continues this week as the focus shifts from new iPhones to the next-generation iPads, expected to launch at an event at the company's headquarters in Cupertino, California.


As with any Apple event, there's a healthy supply of rumours circulating beforehand about what's on deck and the new features we might see in the new products, from faster processors to a gold-coloured iPad.


As the company readies for the announcements - which kick off at 1pm Thursday California time (7am Friday AEDT) - we're taking a closer look at the rumour mill and dissecting them all, from the very possible to the improbable. Here's a look:


iPad Air 2

Rumour: The launch of the iPad Air 2, featuring a faster A8X processor, a Touch ID fingerprint scanner, new colours - most likely in gold - and an anti-glare screen.


Plausibility: All of these rumours have been bubbling up for months, and most recently, we've seen leaked photos to back up claims of a stronger and faster chip, as well as the addition of Touch ID. The fingerprint scanner has already been available for the iPhone but has yet to make an appearance on the iPad. All of the features are a logical next step for Apple, but whether or not it's enough for consumers to upgrade their existing models and buy another is up for debate.


Source: Apple.club.tw, Bloomberg


iPad mini with Retina Display 2

Rumour: Like the iPad Air, Apple's smaller-sized tablet will get a refresh, too: new processor (an A8 chip, which isn't as powerful as the iPad Air 2's rumoured A8X processor but still very fast), Touch ID, a gold option and a screen that makes it easy to see in the sunlight.


Plausibility: All of these rumours are very likely. Despite Apple's need to boost tablet sales, which have been struggling in the latest quarters, we don't expect to see anything too revolutionary with the new iPad Air 2 or iPad mini with Retina 2. It's possible we'll get a new collection of Apple Smart Covers and Smart Cases that are compatible with the new tablets, too.


iPad Pro

Rumour: Apple will reveal an 12.9-inch iPad, alongside the upgrade to its traditional 9.7-inch model.


Plausibility: While it was originally believed the company would launch a larger-sized iPad at the event, the product has reportedly been delayed until early next year so the company could focus on meeting the demand for the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus. If Apple ever launches a 12.9-inch tablet, it would likely appeal more for businesses instead of traditional tablet users. But its appearance at Thursday's event is a longshot.


OS X Yosemite launch

Rumour: Apple's new operating system will finally become available.


Plausibility: We've been dreaming about OS X Yosemite since Apple first demoed the software to developers back in June, and it'll finally get a launch date this week. It's likely Apple will make the update available for users on Thursday, but there's always the chance they could push it out on Friday. The update is the most radical design change since OS X launched in 2001, with new colours, icons and widgets, an improved Safari browser, iCloud Drive and so much more. Apple typically releases its next-generation Mac software in October, so consider its upcoming arrival a done deal.


Source: Nearly everyone.


Retina iMac

Rumour: Apple's latest desktop computer will come in two sizes and feature a Retina display.


Plausibility: It's believed that the new iMac will launch in two sizes (21.5 inches and 27 inches), with the larger model featuring a high-resolution Retina display. Other rumoured specs include a Haswell processor and new AMD graphics - all of which seem very likely.


Retina MacBook Air

Rumour: The launch of a new MacBook Air with Retina display.


Plausibility: While the MacBook Air design hasn't been touched for nearly four years, some speculate this could be its big year for an update, specifically with a high-resolution Retina display. But new reports indicate that, even if it's already in development, it won't be ready for Thursday's event, due largely to a delay with its Intel chips.


New Mac mini

Rumour: The arrival of a new Mac mini.


Plausibility: The Mac mini may be less powerful than the iMac and Mac Pro, but it's an affordable option for many - you supply your own display, keyboard and other accessories. The Mac mini - which hasn't been updated in two years - may get a refresh with a Haswell processor, more storage, better graphics, OS X Yosemite and an even lower price tag.


Apple TV software upgrade

Rumour: Apple TV software will get an upgrade with HomeKit integration.


Plausibility: Apple TV hasn't received an update since January 2013, so the timing would be ripe for a refresh. According to a new report, HomeKit integration was spotted in the latest beta software for Apple TV, which could make the device the hub for Apple's smart home platform. Apple has yet to explain what form HomeKit will take; it has only revealed that users will be able to use Siri to control groups of products, so it's possible it would live inside the TV.


HomeKit update

Rumour: Apple will tell us more about its HomeKit platform that will eventually allow users to users to control locks, lights, cameras, doors, thermostats, plugs and switches in the home.


Plausibility: We haven't heard much about HomeKit since Apple announced the platform in June, but many industry experts say the launch is coming 'soon.' Device manufacturers have teased HomeKit-integrated products will debut 'by the end of the year,' so giving some stage time to update us on the platform's timeline could be in store. It's possible, but not a sure bet. Either way, we'll likely learn more about what is happening with HomeKit soon.


Mashable is the largest independent news source covering digital culture, social media and technology.

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