iPadOS 17.5 Hints at New OLED Displays and Upcoming Apple Pencil

Apple is set to introduce its next generation of iPads, following the last update in October 2022. The first beta of iPadOS 17.5 has revealed significant details about the upcoming devices, suggesting they will feature OLED displays for the first time.

Next-Gen iPad Pro to Include OLED Technology

In examining the iPadOS 17.5 beta code, references to several new iPad models have emerged, indicating that the next-generation iPad Pro will utilize OLED displays. The firmware identifies four new models:

• iPad16,3
• iPad16,4
• iPad16,5
• iPad16,6

These identifiers likely correspond to the new iPad Pro series, which is expected to come in both 11-inch and 12.9-inch sizes, with options for Wi-Fi and Cellular connectivity. The firmware suggests that the 12.9-inch OLED panels will be produced by LG, while both LG and Samsung will supply the 11-inch panels.

A recent report from DSCC indicates that production delays for the new OLED displays may push back the launch of these iPads.

New Apple Pencil Expected

Additionally, the iPadOS 17.5 beta has uncovered clues about a new Apple Pencil. Evidence points to new gestures, including “squeeze,” “long squeeze,” and “double squeeze,” which may be designed for a forthcoming Apple Pencil model. Currently, the Apple Pencil 2 only supports a double-tap gesture and lacks pressure sensors, suggesting these new features will be exclusive to an updated model.

Earlier this year, hints in iPadOS 17.4 code suggested that the new Apple Pencil might include Find My support, a feature not available on current models.

Bloomberg reports that Apple is planning to unveil the new iPad Pro, iPad Air, redesigned Magic Keyboard, and Apple Pencil 3 in the second week of May.