Apple to Debut New 10.5" iPad Pro in 2017, Major Redesign With AMOLED in 2018?

Apple is planning to launch three iPad models in 2017 including a new 10.5-inch iPad Pro, according to KGI analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.

The design of the iPad won't change much going into 2017; however, Kuo predicts that 2018 will bring "revolutionary" changes with a radically redesigned chassis and AMOLED display panels.

The new 10.5-inch iPad Pro is said to debut alongside a 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2 featuring a A10X chip produced with TSMC's 10nm process. It's possible that the 10.5-inch version would replace the 9.7-inch form factor. Next year's low cost 9.7-inch iPad is said to feature a A9X processor also manufactured by TSMC.


We expect three new iPads (12.9” iPad Pro 2, new size 10.5” iPad Pro & low-cost 9.7” iPad) to be launched in 2017, though this may not drive shipment growth amid structural headwinds; 2017F shipments to fall 10-20% YoY. 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” iPad Pro 2 and 10.5” 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.

Sales are expected to drop until the big update in 2018. The new design could boost consumer adoption and bring new user interface designs.

Revolutionary iPad model likely to be introduced in 2018F at the earliest, with radical changes in form factor design & user behavior on adoption of flexible AMOLED panel. We believe iPad will follow in the footsteps of the iPhone by adopting AMOLED panel in 2018F at the earliest. If Apple can truly tap the potential of a flexible AMOLED panel, we believe the new iPad model will offer new selling points through radical form factor design and user behavior changes, which could benefit shipments.

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[via MacRumors] [via AppleInsider]