Our favourite analyst, Ming-Chi Kuo has just released a new research report not related to the Apple iPhone 7 series, but his expectations for the iPad lineup and its future, predicting three upcoming new iPad ranging from 9.7 - 12.9-inches next year. The three new iPad, Kuo said Apple will introduce a new 10.5-inch iPad Pro, 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2, and a "low-cost" 9.7-inch iPad model.
"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."
In addition, Kuo has also something to say about the iPad for 2018, with "radical" and "revolutionary" changes for the design by adopting AMOLED display.
"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."
Lastly, his forecast on iPad shipments has also changed, from 45-50 million to 35-40 million due to a lack of new models to compensate. In fact, the shipments might continue to decline as part of general trends in the tablet market.
Stay tuned for more news at Technave.com.
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