Sources claim that Apple wants to put a spin on the next-gen 9.7-inch iPad by making it part of the iPad Pro series.
The OEM aims to see the iPad Pro in two configurations with different sizes: a 9.7-inch model and a 12.9-inch variant. By doing this, Apple simply takes its MacBook Pro recipe and applies it to its tablet line. Just as a reminder, the MacBook Pro also ships in two variants: a 13-inch and 15-inch.
At its March 15 event, Apple will reportedly unveil the 9.7-inch iPad Pro and not the iPad Air 3 everyone's expecting. The new device should start shipping as soon as March 18.
The smaller variant of the iPad Pro reportedly holsters very similar specs and features to its bigger brother. What this means is that the 9.7-inch iPad Pro will get the same A9X CPU and RAM improvements as the 12.9-inch variant.
What's more, the Apple Pencil support from the 12.9-inch model will come to the smaller iPad Pro, too.
Previous reports showed that the 9.7-inch tablet will sport a Smart Connector, and it seems that Apple will also roll out a tinier version of the Smart Keyboard cover attachment to go with the new model. Chances are that the new peripheral will also be showcased at the March event.
The quad stereo speaker is another element borrowed from the 12.9-inch iPad Pro.
For aesthetically conscious tablet customers, you should know that the smaller iPad Pro will most likely arrive in the same colors as the bigger one. Also, storage space capacity will be about the same.
The good news is that the pricing will be nearer the iPad Air model.
The release of the 9.7-inch iPad Pro is the first step for Apple to simplify its iPad models.
Insiders note that the company slowed down the manufacturing of the first-generation iPad Air tablets and iPad mini 2, alike. Apple might pull the plug altogether on the original iPad Air and the iPad mini 2 when the new iPad Pro comes out.
At the event, the company will also showcase its 4-inch iPhone 5se that sports an A9 chip and refined design, alongside a number of Apple Watch band options. Previous rumors hinted at the unveiling of the iPad Air 3 at the March event, but now seems that model might be replaced by the 9.7-inch iPad Pro.
