New iPad Pros, Switch 2 Rumors, and Pixel 8a Breakdown
The Gadget Rundown
This episode of the Waveform Podcast is a deep dive into the recent flurry of gadget news. With Marquez out, hosts Andrew and David tackle the latest announcements regarding Apple’s new tablet lineup and Google's recent hardware refresh.
Nintendo Switch 2 Rumors
• Official Confirmation: Nintendo has confirmed that an announcement regarding the Switch successor will occur within the current fiscal year (ending April 2025).
• Hardware Speculations: Discussed rumors include a larger 8-inch screen, potentially Tandem OLED technology, and innovative electro-permanent magnets for the Joy-Cons to improve ease of use.
• Form Factor: The hosts mused on the longevity of the original Switch and the excitement for a potential 4K output in docked mode.
The New iPad Pro and iPad Air
• iPad Pro Updates: The new Pros feature Tandem OLED screens for higher brightness and reduced burn-in risk. The 13-inch model is now the thinnest Apple device ever made.
• M4 Chip: Apple surprised the audience by debuting the M4 chip in the iPad Pro, highlighting its focus on AI performance and neural processing.
• FaceTime Camera: A major quality-of-life update, the camera has finally been moved to the horizontal edge for better usability in landscape mode.
• Accessories: A new Apple Pencil Pro was introduced with haptic feedback, a squeeze gesture, and a gyroscope for better rotation control.
Pixel 8a and Industry Trends
"If the Pixel 8 goes back down in price... just get the 8."
• The Pixel 8a is seen as an awkward release, priced very close to the standard Pixel 8, which often drops to a similar price point during sales.
• The hosts suggest that with the Pixel 9 expected in autumn, the 8a faces steep competition even within its own product family.