iPad Pro and AirPower go totally MIA at Apple event

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The much-rumored 2018 iPad Pro models didn't appear at today's Apple press event.
The much-rumored 2018 iPad Pro models didn't appear at today's Apple press event.
Photo: Cult of Mac/MySmartPrice

Apple just unveiled new iPhones and Apple Watch models. But some other hotly-anticipated products were left out of today’s event.

No mention was made of the iPad Pro tablets that have been in so many rumors. And the AirPower wireless charging mat still doesn’t have a release date.

The redesigned and improved 2018 MacBook Air and Mac mini Pro weren’t really expected today, so it’s not surprising that they weren’t announced. And we already knew that the second-generation AirPods and HomePod aren’t coming until 2019.

Hold on for the 2018 iPad Pro

So much information leaked out about new iPad Pro models that it’s virtually certain Apple will release them this fall, even if they were passed over today.

These are expected to follow the design queues of the 2018 iPhones: no Home button, slim bezels, and Face ID. Multiple unconfirmed reports indicate they’ll keep the same 12.9- and 10.5-inch screen sizes, but shrinking the bezels will allow them to be smaller overall. And there’s a slight possibility the iPad Pro line will finally get a USB-C port.

Where the heck is the AirPower?!

Apple announced the AirPower at its September press event. Its September 2017 press event. Despite leaving everyone waiting a year for this accessory, Apple failed to name a release date for it today.

At the time it was announced, the AirPower was the world first wireless charging mat capable of handling multiple devices simultaneously. In the 12 months since it was unveiled, rivals like Samsung and an assortment of third parties beat Apple to market.

The company reportedly was forced to delay its plans after running into overheating problems. But it’s not dead. Apple promised to have the AirPower out by the end of 2018.

There is also supposed to be a wireless AirPod charging case in development, too. This will likely launch at the same time.

Stay Tuned

With strong rumors pointing. to redesigned tablets, an improved McBook Air, a faster Mac mini. and Air Power, Apple has more than enough material for a second fall press event.

And this wouldn’t be unusual. In the past, it has unveiled new iPhones in September, and then waited until October to unwrap fresh tablets and Macs. Looks like that’s the plan for this year too.

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