Apple is reportedly preparing a significant refresh of its iPad Pro lineup, along with a redesign of the entry-level MacBook Pro, according to a recent report. The developments suggest that 2027 could be one of the busiest product years for the company, with multiple hardware updates on the horizon.
iPad Pro models for spring 2027
The report indicates that Apple has been testing four new iPad Pro models, which are expected to arrive in spring 2027. These models will maintain the current display sizes of 11 inches and 13 inches, with a focus on internal improvements rather than dramatic external changes. The updates are said to include faster chips, and Apple has previously tested a vapor chamber cooling system for the tablets to improve sustained performance and reduce overheating. This cooling technology would be a first for the iPad lineup, potentially allowing for more demanding applications such as professional video editing and 3D modeling.
The last major update to the iPad Pro came in October 2025, when Apple introduced the M5 chip. Since then, the company raised the starting price of the 11-inch model from $999 to $1,199, and the 13-inch version from $1,299 to $1,499. These price increases have made the iPad Pro more expensive, but the new models in 2027 may justify the cost with their enhanced capabilities. There have also been rumors of a foldable iPad Pro with an 18.8-inch display, but the four models currently being tested appear to be a conventional refresh of the existing lineup, likely aimed at maintaining Apple’s competitive edge in the high-end tablet market.
Historically, the iPad Pro has evolved through several generations, starting with the first model in 2015 featuring the A9X chip. The transition to Apple Silicon with the M1 chip in 2021 marked a significant performance leap. The M2 and M4 models continued to push the boundaries, and the M5 brought further improvements in graphics and AI processing. The upcoming models in 2027 would likely feature either the M6 or M7 chip, offering even greater performance for creative professionals and businesses.
Redesigned entry-level MacBook Pro
Apple is also preparing a revamped entry-level MacBook Pro, code-named K104, which could launch as early as the first half of 2027. This 14-inch laptop will adopt a new design that aligns with what Apple is preparing for higher-end MacBook models with touch screens. The higher-end MacBooks with touch screens are expected between the end of this year and early next year, so the entry-level model will share the same aesthetic language. The report notes that Apple had already finished work on a refreshed entry-level MacBook Pro codenamed J804, which was planned for a 2026 release with the current design and a new base M6 chip. However, the company has since shifted its focus to a redesigned model, suggesting a more comprehensive update.
The entry-level MacBook Pro has traditionally been less flashy than its high-end counterparts, but a redesign could make it more attractive to a broader audience. The new design may include thinner bezels, possibly a taller display with minimal bezels, and improved thermal management. Apple has been moving towards a unified design language across its MacBook lineup, and this redesign would bring the entry-level model in line with the premium models. The inclusion of touch screen capabilities in higher-end MacBooks also hints at a potential future for touch input on the Pro line, though it remains to be seen if the entry-level model will feature touch support.
Accelerated M7 processor rollout
Another key development is Apple’s plan to debut the M7 processor as early as the first half of 2027. This represents an acceleration of the chip transition from the upcoming M6 generation, which itself is expected to launch in late 2026 or early 2027. The faster-than-usual rollout is reportedly intended to better support more demanding artificial intelligence workloads. Apple has been investing heavily in AI, both on-device and in the cloud, and the M7 chip is likely to feature a significantly enhanced neural engine and improved AI/ML capabilities. This would enable more advanced features like real-time language translation, image recognition, and automated video editing directly on the device.
The M-series chips have been a cornerstone of Apple’s strategy, allowing the company to deliver powerful, energy-efficient devices across the Mac and iPad lines. The M1, M2, M3, M4, and M5 chips each brought incremental improvements, but the faster cadence of the M6 and M7 suggests that Apple is responding to competitive pressure from rivals such as Qualcomm, Intel, and AMD, as well as the growing demands of AI software. The M7 is expected to be built on an even more advanced process node, possibly 3nm or even 2nm technology, providing significant performance and efficiency gains.
Supply chain challenges and market context
Despite these promising developments, the report warns that ongoing memory and chip shortages could still disrupt Apple’s product roadmap. The global semiconductor industry has faced supply constraints since the pandemic, and while the situation has improved, certain components remain in tight supply. Apple has managed to secure priority access to many chips, but memory shortages, particularly for high-bandwidth memory used in AI applications, could delay launches. The company has been diversifying its supply chain and investing in internal chip design to mitigate these risks, but the geopolitical landscape and demand fluctuations remain unpredictable.
2027 has been rumored to be Apple’s biggest product year ever, with potential launches including an Apple Car, a mixed-reality headset successor, and new iPhone models with advanced camera systems. The new iPad Pro and MacBook Pro updates add to the mounting list of hardware releases. The company’s focus on AI and performance improvements aligns with broader industry trends, as consumers and enterprises demand more powerful devices for creative workflows, data analysis, and machine learning.
In the context of the tablet market, the iPad Pro faces competition from Microsoft’s Surface Pro series, Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S series, and emerging Android foldable tablets. Apple’s advantage lies in its tightly integrated ecosystem, powerful Apple Silicon, and extensive app library for professionals. The vapor chamber cooling system, if implemented, would help the iPad Pro sustain high performance for longer periods, making it more suitable for tasks like 4K video editing or 3D rendering on the go.
Similarly, the MacBook Pro competes with Windows laptops from Dell, Lenovo, HP, and ASUS. The redesign of the entry-level model could attract users who previously opted for the MacBook Air, offering more performance and ports without a significant price increase. The entry-level MacBook Pro is often the choice for students, developers, and small business owners who need extra power over the Air but do not require the high-end specs of the MacBook Pro with M4 Max or M5 chips.
Overall, the reported testing of new iPad Pro models and the redesigned MacBook Pro suggest that Apple is committed to refreshing its product lineup regularly, even as it pursues ambitious new categories. The accelerated M7 rollout indicates that the company sees AI as a key differentiator and is willing to push chip development faster than ever. However, supply chain risks remain a wild card, and actual launch dates could slip if component shortages worsen. For now, Apple enthusiasts have exciting prospects to look forward to in 2027.
Source:9to5Mac News