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Apple Could Have Plans for a Big iPad Event in March

By
Don Reisinger
Don Reisinger
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By
Don Reisinger
Don Reisinger
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February 21, 2017, 1:19 PM ET

Apple has big plans for its iPad line, according to a new report.

The tech giant is planning to hold a March event with reporters, during which it will unveil four new iPad tablets, Japanese Apple-tracking site Mac Otakara is reporting, citing sources. The company’s event will focus on the most powerful Apple slate—the iPad Pro—and include two new sizes, according to the report.

First up, Apple (AAPL) will refresh its existing 9.7-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models with new processors and possibly new designs. Meanwhile, the company is planning to deliver its first 7.9-inch iPad Pro model, as well as a 10.5-inch version, according to the report.

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Apple already offers a 7.9-inch iPad Mini 4, but has never offered the screen size in the iPad Pro line. Apple has never offered a 10.5-inch iPad.

Rumors have been swirling over the last few months that Apple has plans to update its iPad line. While the notoriously secretive Apple hasn’t confirmed its plans, several rumors have said that the iPad Pro versions would get some updates. There was previously talk of a 10-inch iPad Pro, though those reports said a 10.9-inch version would be available. Now, Mac Otakara’s sources are saying the device will actually come with a 10.5-inch screen.

Related: Apple Is Making a Big Change to WWDC This Year

What’s odd, however, is that Apple would hold an iPad event without updating any of its other slates. If the Mac Otakara’s sources are correct, Apple will only focus on the iPad Pro, the company’s highest-end line, offering the fastest processors and biggest screens. It’s unclear why Apple wouldn’t also refresh the iPad Mini and iPad Air. The iPad Mini tablets are designed for the budget-conscious shoppers and come with 7.9-inch screens. The iPad Air is a mainstream consumer product with a 9.7-inch display. Prices on the iPad Mini 4 and iPad Air 2—the latest models in each line—each start at $399. The iPad Pro starts at $599.

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Whatever Apple’s plans, critics last year were surprised by the company’s decision not to announce new iPads. The 9.7-inch iPad Pro was the only version unveiled last year, meaning the tablets Apple is selling now are about two years old—a lifetime in a tablet market that typically sees component upgrades each year. Apple has hinted that it has plans for an iPad update in 2017.

The Mac Otakara report, which was earlier discovered by Apple-tracking site MacRumors, didn’t say when the iPads would reach store shelves.

About the Author
By Don Reisinger
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