Instead, Apple could reveal an update for the first gen 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2 just to match the specs of the 9.7 such as better cameras as well as the True Tone display.
Advertisement
Despite the fate of the entire iPad Air line being clouded with uncertainty these past several months, hope that the device lineup would soon have a refresh has been rekindled, as a new report has surfaced saying that Apple is set to release at least three different variants of their iPad tablets throughout the entire course of 2017.
“We expect three new iPads (12.9″ iPad Pro 2, new size 10.5″ iPad Pro & low-priced 9.7” iPad) to be launched in 2017, though this may not drive shipment growth amid structural headwinds; 2017F shipments to fall 10-20% YoY.
Apple’s first generation iPad Pro was originally launched with a 12.9-inch display size in November 2015 and a $799 United States dollars base price (32GB Wi-Fi only), followed by a 9.7-inch model in March 2016 for $599.
It is also speculated that the 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2 and 10.5-inch variant will be run by an A10X processor, utilizing 10nm process technology that will be exclusively supplied by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), Mac Rumors reported.
Advertisement
According to the publication, the new 10.5-inch iPad Pro will replace the popular 9.7-inch iPad Pro. He says the conservative forecast revision reflects a lack of Apple releasing any new models before the end of the year, along with other general trends in the tablet market. We shall see the introduction of iPad models with a revolutionised design, and the models shall feature an AMOLED display. “In addition, we estimate the 12.9″ iPad Pro 2 and 10.5” iPad Pro will adopt the A10X processor, with TSMC (2330 TT, NT$177.5, N) being the sole supplier using 10nm process technology. We are expecting new iPads late this year or in 2017. The tech analyst also said that Apple will still release a new 9.7-inch iPad next year but it will carry a less powerful A9X processor.
