New iPad Air 3 Release Date, Rumors & News Update: Apple To Rebrand Tablet as iPad Pro 2016?

By Kamal Nayan - 10 Mar '16 12:24PM

If you're waiting for an iPad Air update, you're out of luck as according to rumors the company might launch 9.7in, iPad Pro 2 instead an iPad Air 3. The 9.7in iPad Pro 2 will go alongside its 12.9in predecessor, 9to5Mac reported.

The upcoming iPad Pro 2016 will have the A9X processor and will support Apple Pencil.

"The smaller iPad Pro will have nearly identical features and specifications as the bigger model, bringing along the A9X processor and RAM upgrades from the 12.9-inch model," wrote 9to5Mac. "It will also include the 12.9-inch model's updated display technology to support the Apple Pencil."

"No other iPad has an rear flash, but if Apple is bringing 9.7-inch tablet's camera up to the 6s specs, then it's not out of the realm of the possibility," the report added.

Reports also claim that the Cupertino based tech-giant is preparing a smaller version of its Smart Keyboard attachment for the 9.7in tablet. The tablet would also get an 8-megapixel rear camera, a fingerprint sensor and maybe even a 4K display.

"In March, Apple intends to announce an updated iPad and smaller-screen iPhone featuring the latest A9X and A9 chips, according to a person familiar with the plans, who wasn't authorized to comment publicly," wrote Bloomberg.

However, Apple won't be using the 3D touch the upcoming iPad and the reason is problems in supply chain for 3D Touch components.