Apple's May event hints at AI leap amid iPhone sales dip

Apple recently published its financial results for the first quarter of 2024, revealing a 10% drop in iPhone sales compared to the previous year. According to information provided by Reuters, investors are expressing concern about this downturn, especially as Apple's implementation of generative artificial intelligence technology is lagging. Meanwhile, this represents a significant trend in the industry in recent years, with competitors such as Samsung and Google already deploying relevant solutions.

Many anticipate that the new iPhone 16 will feature advanced AI capabilities. However, with four months until its launch, another quarterly investor meeting will occur before this model hits the market. Under these circumstances, the company cannot afford delays in presenting its new products.

Therefore, it is hardly surprising that Apple employees have strongly hinted that artificial intelligence will be addressed during the June WWDC 2024 conference. Tim Cook might even share some details sooner.

Apple's event is set for May 7, at which—as leaks suggest—new iPad Pro and Air models will be introduced. The top models are expected to feature OLED screens and a new stylus responsive to squeezing gestures.

According to The Washington Post, during the unveiling of the new iPads, Apple may showcase or hint at some AI functionalities that will ultimately be found in iPhones.

This would not be the first time Apple introduced significant tablet features. The LiDAR sensor, a key element of the iPhone 12 Pro's 2020 campaign, was employed in the iPad Pro six months prior. A similar scenario occurred with the adoption of 120-hertz ProMotion displays, first used in tablets.

Moreover, the "Let Loose" conference is promoted on social media as "another Apple event." This suggests that even those who typically overlook tablets should take note of the upcoming announcements.