"Rumors say that Apple might expand its iPad line in the first quarter of 2017. These rumors as published in DigiTimes come from the Taiwanese branch of Apple’s supply change. The new iPad will be 10.5” (the first iPad of this size) and will have the A10X processor. It might also feature a borderless design. Apple already manufactures the 7.9-inch iPad mini 4, 9.7and 12.9-inch iPad Pro tablets. They also sell the 9.7-inch iPad Air 2. The new size comes between the two extremes and is hoped to be convenient for all users.

Why has Apple introduced a new size?

The question is that why Apple would introduce a new size in its already successful plus tried and tested iPad range? The answer is for education and business. Both of these markets would eagerly welcome a laptop of this size. For most students the 12.9 inch iPad pro might be too large and too expensive. Moreover, the 9.7 inch iPad might be too small for the enterprise sector. So the idea is to launch something in between – something that might satisfy all customers. That’s where the new iPad comes in.

What else will the new iPad feature?

In addition to a new 10.5 inch size, the next iPad will also have A10X processor. This processor is one step ahead of the A10 processor in iPhone 7 and iPhone 7S. It has higher performance levels than A10 and will also be used in the new 12.9 inch iPad Pro which is set to be updated the next year. The same processor may also be used in a 9.7 inch iPad mini which is being released to directly compete with Android tablets. Along with this, the new iPad will also have no borders.

Will it be successful?

DigiTimes predicted that the new iPad might sell 2 million devices soon after its release in 2017 and three to four million before the year will end.

However, it must be remembered that the rumor is a after all, all rumor. It might even be true, it might be false. Other rumors have also floated around including the one that Apple is holding a launch event early in 2017. If we put two and two together, then the launch of a new iPad is very likely. Only time and Apple will tell what is really true. "