I find this decision to put it in the iPad Pro somewhat puzzling. One consequence of this is that nobody is going to want to buy M3 MacBooks for a while, knowing that such a big leap in performance is around the corner.
Does Apple really sell more iPad Pros than MacBooks to make it worthwhile? I was under the impression that the iPad Pro is a somewhat niche product and the Air is far more popular.
> One consequence of this is that nobody is going to want to buy M3 MacBooks for a while, knowing that such a big leap in performance is around the corner.
I think this is one of those things that only enthusiasts care about, and if you care that much about performance you’re probably one of the people who buys a new one every year or two anyways so they aren’t really missing out on your revenue.
Most people just need or want a new laptop and order whatever one is currently available.
I think the theory is that there is going to be a large on-device AI push at WWDC. And iPads generally have a very long refresh cycle. In order for iPads to participate, they needed the M4's.
I think it makes total sense. I speculate the M4 might be too expensive to manufacture for a MBA right now. The iPad Pro is a relatively niche, slow cycle and high-margin product.
People who buy MacBooks aren't suddenly going to stop or switch to Windows because of some Osborne effect. The entry-level M3 MBA is still extremely hard to beat at the same price point.
Most believed that M4 was not coming either until a last minute rumor. So who knows.
Related rumors:
- M3 process is expensive so it's getting dropped ASAP
- M4 needed for AI so the whole line is getting refreshed
- There's competition from Nuvia etc and M4 is needed to get ahead
Does Apple really sell more iPad Pros than MacBooks to make it worthwhile? I was under the impression that the iPad Pro is a somewhat niche product and the Air is far more popular.