It is already speculated that Apple is cooking a third model for their iPad Pro line up for 2017, a 10.9-inch model. Very little information is known about the third model until now where it is said to be sporting a bezel-free design.
Based on the notes coming from Barclays Research analysts, citing sources familiar with the matter, the edge-to-edge design will allow the rumored model to have the same physical dimensions as the 9.7-inch model. However, with this design in mind, it also raises the rumors that the company will then eliminate the physical Home button on its new model, according to Mac Rumors.
The current 12.9-inch and 9.7-inch iPad Pros will basically be much the same on the outside, with more of the upgrades happening on its internals. Additionally, all models are rumored to contain a four-speaker system, quad-microphones, and a four-channel sensor to detect ambient light. It is also said to retain the standard headphone slot. The current two models only contain a dual-microphone setup.
Apple is expected to market its smallest iPad Pro as an entry-level slate together with its iPad Mini. The latter model is not expected to receive any update. The entry-level model is also speculated to be under the $500 price range, which would allow Apple to entice more consumers wanting to have an affordable, yet powerful tablet. On the other hand, the 9.7-inch iPad Pro was introduced with a $599 price tag.
Previous reports suggest a different screen size for the new model. Some say that it will be 10.1-inch, while others reported a 10.5-inch device. However, the rumored 2017 model will still not carry OLED displays since it is expected to be implemented by 2018, this is according to Ming-Chi Kuo, an analyst at KGI Securities.
Kuo stated earlier: "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-inch iPad Pro 2 and 10.5-inch 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.
In the meantime, Apple has not issued any statement with regards to its future iPad Pro models.
