A new rumor suggests that Apple may introduce a new model of its Ipad Pro along with the Siri smart speaker at the WWDC, which is all set to kick off on June 5. This rumor has been fueled by KGI Securities’ analyst Ming Chi-Kuo, who is considered a reliable source of information when it comes to Apple products. Kuo stated that there is a 70 percent chance of Apple introducing the new iPad Pro model.
The chances of the Siri Speaker being unveiled is around 50 percent according to the analyst.
The new iPad Pro
Kuo says that the next iPad Pro model will feature a 10.5-inch as opposed to the 9.7-inch model. The design will also be quite different from previous variants as Apple will likely try to minimize the bezels in the 10.5-inch model to incorporate the bigger display. KGI believes that the Cupertino-based company would start mass producing the 10.5-inch model by the second quarter of 2017. For this to happen, the company would need to launch the tablet during the WWDC.
The upcoming tablet would resemble the iPad Pro 9.7-inch and Kuo states that both the variants will have the same chassis.
The lesser bezel design of the new product will also serve as a reminder of the fact that the iPhone 8 to be released this year would boast edge-to-edge display. Kuo also estimates that Apple would manufacture and sell 6 million 10.5-inch iPad Pros by end 2017.
Siri Speaker
Apple’s answer to Amazon’s and Google’s smart speakers – the Siri Speaker – may also be unveiled during the WWDC. Reports indicate that the speaker would offer clear audio quality. It would be costlier than the Echo. A touch panel is also expected in the Apple speaker, although it is not clear whether this feature would be similar to the one shown off by Amazon recently, called the Echo Show.
Software release
WWDC is mainly an event where the company showcases its brand new software updates and operating systems.
This year as well, Apple will likely launch the iOS 11, macOS 10.13, tvOS 11, and watchOS 4. The KGI report does not state what new features or functionalities would be added by these updated OS versions. However, it is certain that some substantial changes would come into effect after these versions rollout.
The WWDC starts June 5 and iFans can tune into the event on the company’s website. People will be eager to see the new iPad Pro models and also the Siri Speaker from the company. It remains to be seen if the company unveils the new tablet models, as well as the rumored smart speaker.