Barclays Analyst Predicts New IPad Pro Models

The news comes from Japanese blog Macotakara who has a reputation for leaking Apple news before it happens.

We’re getting reports that Apple’s Spring event will be focused on revamping its iPad lineup. The 7.9-inch version will be the replacement for the iPad Mini 4, taking the compact tablet up a market level by moving it to the “Pro” brand.

The 7.9-inch tablet will allegedly gain a smart connector, essentially giving it Pro functionality with the use of a keyboard. Finally, there’s the new 10.5-inch iPad. While it will be the same size as the iPad Mini, it won’t be the same device. All that should be answered next month at the upcoming Apple event as iPad Pro 2 talk heats up. Additionally, the 10.5-inch variant will allegedly break the mold by offering a new screen size along with a almost bezel-less display, which would bring some novelty to the lineup.

My money is on one or the other, but not both. So at best the 9.7-inch version is a refresh, not a new iPad. I use an iPad for hours each day and find it hard to imagine using an edge-to-edge display.

The 9.7 inch and 129 inch iPad Pro models, for instance, will receive new processors and might also come with a new design. That makes me heavily outnumbered. The standard 3.5mm audio jack is also expected to retain, following the controversial removal from the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus.

According to a fresh report from MacOtakara, Apple in March will not only unveil a slew of new iPad hardware, but some new iPhone models as well.

In addition, the publication cites rumors of a possible 128GB iPhone SE introduction. Lastly, the iPhone 7s and iPhone 7s Plus are more likely to sport the red color instead of the earlier iPhone 7 released in September previous year. Apple’s 4-inch smartphone now tops out at 64GB. If the rumours are to be referred to, Apple will be launching an augmented reality wearable that can give productivity on tablets a big boost. Several outlets plugged into Apple’s supply chain are saying it, and it’s bloody well time for Apple to update iPads. It’s unclear whether the iPhone SE will see any other upgrades or price changes this year.