[Asia Economy Reporter Joselgina] Samsung Electronics and Apple are both holding new product launch events this month. Targeting the surge in demand for laptops and tablet PCs following the spread of COVID-19, they are expected to unveil new products such as the Galaxy Book and iPad Pro. It is considered unusual that both companies are launching products simultaneously and holding unpack events around this time.
Samsung Electronics will hold an online event titled "Galaxy Unpacked: The most powerful Galaxy is coming" at 11 PM on the 28th (11 AM Eastern Time, USA).
Samsung Electronics has not disclosed which products will be revealed at this event. However, industry insiders expect the unveiling of Samsung's new laptops, including the Galaxy Book Pro and Pro 360. Samsung stated, "We will reveal the most powerful Galaxy device ever, expanding the Galaxy ecosystem to provide the next-generation mobile experience." The trailer released with the invitation shows an image resembling a laptop being opened.
The Galaxy Book Pro and Galaxy Book Pro 360 have a form factor similar to existing laptops. They are expected to be released in 13-inch and 15-inch sizes, respectively. In particular, the Pro 360 is anticipated to feature a 360-degree foldable touch panel and an S Pen.
This is the first time Samsung Electronics is holding an unpack event for a laptop PC rather than a smartphone. It is seen as a decision to capture the globally increased demand for laptops following the spread of COVID-19. Samsung Electronics is outside the ranking in the global PC market share. According to market research firm Gartner, global PC shipments in the first quarter of this year reached 69.9 million units, a 32% increase compared to the same period last year.
Apple will also hold an event named "Spring Loaded" at 2 AM on the 21st (10 AM local time on the 20th) at Apple Park in Cupertino, California. This event, broadcast live online worldwide, is expected to debut new iPad Pro models along with the wireless tracking device AirTag and a new Apple Pencil. The invitation features an Apple logo that appears to be drawn with an Apple Pencil.
The new iPad Pro is expected to be the first to feature a mini LED display, available in 11-inch and 12.9-inch sizes. It is also anticipated to be equipped with the ‘A14X chip,’ based on Apple’s custom-designed M1 processor. CNBC reported, "Using mini LED technology will provide improved visuals for watching movies and viewing photos."
Like Samsung Electronics, Apple is focusing on the growth of tablet PCs following the spread of COVID-19, aiming to solidify its number one position. Last year, global tablet PC shipments reached 52.8 million units, a 54% increase compared to the previous year.
Additionally, the AirTag expected to be introduced by Apple is a wireless tracking accessory similar to the Galaxy SmartTag released earlier this year. It can be attached to easily lost valuables such as wallets and keys, allowing their current location to be found via iPhone or iPad. It is based on ultra-wideband (UWB) wireless communication technology, has a diameter of 3 cm, and is expected to be priced around $39.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
