Apple’s upcoming iPad models reportedly delayed until later this year

Apple’s three upcoming iPad models have been rumoured for quite a few months now. The trio is also expected to include a 10.5-inch or 10.9-inch screen size variant. But now, it seems that Apple fans will have to wait for a few more months.
According to a new report from Digitimes website, launch of Apple’s new iPads has been delayed to the second half of this year. Until now, the iOS-powered tablets were rumoured to come in the second quarter of 2017.
In addition, the report cements previous rumours suggesting that Apple could launch a 9.7-inch iPad model with an affordable price. The other two models are likely to include a 10.5-inch version and a next-gen 12.9-inch iPad Pro. The three models are likely still under the planning stage, so it’s not sure if they’ll ever make it to the market.
Apple is claimed to be getting the components of its 9.7-inch iPad from secondary suppliers. The LED modules will be supplied by Korea-based Seoul Semiconductor. The 10.5-inch iPad and the 12.9-inch iPad Pro may come with an Apple A10X processor. Other modules are expected to come directly from Apple’s primary suppliers.
As per a recent report, citing KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, there won’t be a ‘Mini’ iPad model in the upcoming iPad line-up. A note by Kuo said that the smaller 9.7-inch iPad model will reportedly run on an Apple A9 chip, which is used iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus. The chip maybe manufactured by Samsung.
Kuo further noted that the 9.7-inch model may contribute to 50-60% of total iPad shipments. Interestingly, he also predicted that iPad shipments may drop again.
Apple was supposed to begin production of 10.5-inch iPad last month, as per the report. This variant is expected to have the same size as the 9.7-inch iPad Pro. This essentially means that the device will cut down on screen bezels.