It has just been confirmed that Apple will be holding a stand-alone event on March 21, where the company will introduce some its flagships for this year. One of the iterations heavily rumored to be appearing is a scaled-down version of the iPad Pro. It is also speculated that this "iPad Pro Mini" will be the replacement for the iPad Air 3.
While it has yet to be confirmed if the Cupertino-based company will release two 9.7-inch iPad lineups this year, at least one of the rumored new iPads is already seemingly confirmed. According to Cult of Mac, an alleged photo of a tablet case for a new 9.7-inch iPad has appeared online.
The industry follower noted that while not much can be discerned from the image, the case itself already gives hints on what Apple plans for its next iPad follow-up. Allegedly, the new iPad has a Smart Connector port and a four-speaker setup.
Should this be the new iPad that Apple will launch on March 21, then it may really be a scaled-down version of the original iPad Pro, since the professional-level Apple hybrid has the same features.
It is said that Apple has planned for the new iPad Air 3 to make its debut early this year, possibly during the March 21 event. However, if the "iPad Pro Mini" will be unveiled next week, Apple will have to delay the launch of the new iPad Air.
Should this happen, this would be the second time that the iPad Air 3 has given way to the iPad Pro. According to speculations, Apple originally scheduled the iPad Air 3's unveiling for last October but had to adjust the launch date to make way for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro.
Aside from a new iPad, it is also said that the March 21 event will have fans see the new iPhone 5SE, as well as a refreshed Apple Watch.
