Apple's line of tablets appears to have been left behind after a flurry of launches late last year and the excitement that comes with the coming anniversary iPhone 8 or iPhone X, whichever rumor proves true.
While little has been said about the iPad lately, there are a few news and rumors that surface every now and then.
Latest iOS Update
Apple has just officially released its latest iOS update for its iPad devices along with the iPhone and iPod Touch. The iOS 10.2.1 is expected to fix the bugs and improve performance as compared to the previous iOS 10.2 which is known more for the new emojis and iPhone wallpapers that came with it. The initial beta for the software update was issued last Dec. 14 before a second beta was released right before Christmas.
This early, a new iOS 10.3 beta is already rumored to be on its way. The upcoming software update will supposedly have a new Theater Mode which will be accessible using the Control Center.
iPad Pro 2
Speaking of the iOS 10.3 update, a rumor has surfaced saying the new iPad Pro 2 will be released at the same time as the software update. The iOS update is expected to come sometime in March or April so the new iPad may also be introduced by then if the rumor is correct. Another rumor says the tablet will cost $799 and will come with a slimmer and lighter design.
An Apple employee in China supposedly provided Apple Insider with images of the iPad Pro 2 back in July last year. The device sported a model number, MH1C2CD/F, which has yet to be confirmed but do follow the usual pattern of the company's device numbering convention.
iPad mini 5
It's been more than a year since the iPad mini 4 was released yet there is no sight of the iPad mini 5. There are rumors that Apple is planning to discontinue the iPad mini line. There is another, from acclaimed analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, that the company will unveil three new iPads measuring 9.7, 10.1 to 10.5, and 12.9 inches. With no mention of a smaller sized tablet, the iPad mini's demise seems to have been confirmed.
