As we close out 2020, this… who sank my battleship of years… we’re already starting to hear rumors about what’s up next. What Apple’s got coming out way in 2021. And this latest report, from veteran Apple analyst and supply chain exfiltrator, Kuo Ming-Chi is all about Apple Silicon Macs, iPads, AirPods 3, Watches, and more.
Apple Silicon Macs
Ok, so, first, according to Kuo, who’s rated at 78% accurate across 141 rumors according to the AppleTrack website:
Apple plans to release additional MacBook models with Apple Silicon in the second half of 2021. Kuo said that these MacBook models will feature a new design, but didn’t specify which new MacBooks they would be.
iPads
Second, Kuo expects that the iPad's growth momentum will come from the adoption of new technologies such as Mini-LED backlighting and 5G support. Kuo expects a new low-priced iPad to launch in the second half of 2021 — presumably the ninth-generation iPad.
Now, earlier this week, the Elec out of Korean reported:
Apple is preparing to adopt OLED screens for its iPad Pro tablets launching next year, TheElec has learned.
Samsung Display and LG Display, which currently supplies OLED panels for iPhones, were currently developing the new OLED panel for the new tablets that will likely launch in the second half of 2021.
Kuo expects a new low-priced iPad to launch in the second half of 2021 — presumably the ninth-generation iPad.
AirPods 3
Next, Kuo also expects third-generation AirPods to launch in the late second quarter of 2021. He has previously claimed that the design of the third-generation AirPods will be "similar to AirPods Pro," but likely without active noise cancellation.
Apple Watch
Moving on, Kuo predicted that the "new Apple Watch shipment's momentum in 2021 will benefit from innovative health management functions and improved form factor design,