CUPERTINO: Apple has announced a major revamp of its iPad range with three new models - two Pro iPads with a new M2 chip system and a redesigned entry-level iPad.

The cheaper iPad now comes in the angular design of the previous Pro models and has a USB-C port. Apple may thereby be preparing for European laws set to force device manufacturers to conform to the USB-C charging standard.

Meanwhile the new M2 chip “supercharges iPad Pro’s performance to help unleash your creativity and enhance productivity”, Apple CEO Tim Cook said.

In contrast to previous iPad presentations, Apple did not hold an event on Oct 18, but simply updated its website. Beforehand, the online store had gone offline for two hours to incorporate the new offerings.

In terms of looks, the two iPad Pro models hardly differ from their predecessors, which were introduced in April 2021. They will continue to be available with 11in and 12.9in screen diagonals. The entry-level iPad will be offered in blue, pink, yellow and silver.

The A14 Bionic chip, which is also used in the fourth-generation iPad Air and was previously used in the iPhone 12, is at the heart of the cheaper iPad. This is said to make the iPad five times faster than comparable tablets with Google's Android operating system.

But like with the iPhone, iPad fans outside the US will need deep pockets, as the standard iPad is available from €579 or US$449 (from RM2,099 in Malaysia). Models that can also handle LTE mobile communications cost upwards of €779 or US$599 .

For anyone on a smaller budget, Apple is still selling the previous model, the 9th generation iPad, which starts at €429 or US$329 (from RM1,599 for WiFi only, from RM2,249 for WiFi + LTE).

With the iPad Pro, Apple is crossing into four-figure prices in some markets, with prices starting at €1,049 in the Eurozone or US$799 in the US (from RM3,899 in Malaysia). The larger 12.9in model costs at least €1,449 or US$1,099 (from RM5,399 in Malaysia).

Local availability has yet to be announced.

 - dpa