According to speculations, Apple will expand its iPad lineup early next year, with a new 10.5-inch addition to its iPad Pro lineup.
As reported by MacRumors, a research note from KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggest that Apple will most likely release the new tablet next year in three variations. The three tablets will include a new 10.5-inch iPad Pro, a budget 9.7-inch iPad, and the 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2.
"We expect three new iPads (12.9" iPad Pro 2, new size 10.5" iPad Pro & low-cost 9.7" iPad) to be launched in 2017, though this may not drive shipment growth amid structural headwinds," as quoted from Kuo.
Apparently, the tech giant will also add an in-between iteration for the new 9.7-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2.
"If the iPad comes in a larger size, such as a 10.5" model, we believe it will be helpful to bid for tenders within the commercial and education markets. As a result, we expect Apple to launch a 10.5" iPad Pro in 2017. 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. The low-cost 9.7" model may adopt the A9X processor, which is also exclusively supplied by TSMC."
Kuo also highlighted Apple's strategy to boost the shipment growth by introducing the iPad Pro 10.5 inch model, as it will likely aim at education and commercial sectors. Until the full specifications of these variants are revealed, Apple might include technology that enables the iPad lineups to get faster screen zooming, scrolling and panning.
Meanwhile, Apple is expected to release a different variant under the iPad Pro 2 lineup, which will be called iPad Pro Mini. Rumors suggest that this may replace a future iPad Mini 5 by completing the new iPad Pro 2 series with a Mini addition. If this will be possible, an iPad Pro Mini may come out with a 7.9-inch display and basic specs, much like the 9.7-inch iPad Pro 2 version, University Herald reported.
Based on University Herald's report leaking iPad Pro 2's specs, the new 9.7-inch is suggested to serve as the basic model for the series, carrying an A9X processor for low-end market, while the new 10.5-inch variant, together with the 12.9-inch variant, will be the top-tier versions, featuring a more premium and newer A10X chipset.