'iPad Air 3' release date news, specs updates: prospects for release still bleak; Apple may focus on hybrid tablets instead

Apple iPad Air 2 promo image apple.com

As Apple continues to release new editions of devices for its phone and tablet lines, hopes are steadily growing dimmer that the Cupertino-based company will continue the iPad Air line after all.

According to the latest post by IT Pro, the lack of news about the device is not a good indication that the iPad Air 3 will be released this year since it has been two years since the last in the line, the iPad Air 2 was released. It was initially hoped that the iPad Air 3 was going to be released along with the iPad Pro last year but instead, Apple opted to go with an iPad Pro 9.7, with features earlier attributed to the iPad Air 3.

Meanwhile, there are still those who are holding out hope that until the October-November 2016 window comes to a close, there may still be a chance that Apple could release the next version of the iPad Air.

However, a report by Macworld UK hinted that if the iPad Pro 2's second anniversary comes and goes without new information from Apple, then Apple may have already lost interest in continuing the line for its Air brand, and permanently replaced the niche with the iPad Pro line as earlier speculated by pundits.

This was not the first time that the idea has been floated in the rumor mill as the BitBag earlier hinted that Apple was looking at replacing the iPad Air line with the iPad Mini 5 in the face of a steadily more competive market in the tablet market.

The site further cited leaked information from manufacturers who refused to share information about the tablets, but instead opted to speak about the iPad Pro and iPhone 7 specs.

Also, it has been said that it would be more practical for the company to focus on producing hybrid tablets that could be more marketable.

News
Church of England bishops were right to halt same-sex blessing plans - Bishop of Winchester 
Church of England bishops were right to halt same-sex blessing plans - Bishop of Winchester 

The Bishop of Winchester has defended the recent decision of the House of Bishops to pause plans to introduce standalone same-sex blessing services. 

Protecting girls and young women in the digital age
Protecting girls and young women in the digital age

It’s a missional priority for us as Christian communities to have open discussions about both the benefits and downsides of being online.

Rev Dr Richard Turnbull: former principal of Wycliffe Hall, Oxford
Rev Dr Richard Turnbull: former principal of Wycliffe Hall, Oxford

Richard Turnbull brought an unusual combination of skills to his life’s work. He died on 26 October, aged 65, having been diagnosed with terminal cancer.

Church-run shop volunteers receive prestigious award for decades of service
Church-run shop volunteers receive prestigious award for decades of service

The local area suffered significantly after the closure of the Ravenscraig Steel Works.