Kuo: New 10.8-inch iPad and 9-inch iPad mini coming soon

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Apple wallpapers from the 2020 iPad Pro
New iPads expected in next year, according to a reputable analyst.
Photo: ispazio

Apple will launch a new 10.8-inch iPad during the second half of 2020, followed by a new iPad mini that’s between 8.5-inches and 9-inches during the first half of 2021, according to a report released Thursday by Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.

According to Kuo, who has reliable sources within the majority of Apple component suppliers and manufacturers, the selling points of these iPads will be “the affordable price tag and the adoption of fast chips,” much like the new iPhone SE.

It’s not clear if Kuo’s reference to “affordable” is an update of the current $329 10.2-inch iPad or the $499 10.5-inch iPad Air. Regardless, if Kuo is right and new models will be larger but cheaper, a re-design could be part of the strategy.

Kuo is based in Hong King with the financial services group, TF International Securities.

Possibilities

The possible new iPad mini screen sizes between 8.5-inches and 9-inches would be bigger than the current 7.9-inch version starting at $399, meaning the mini won’t be so ‘mini’ anymore.

Speculation among some is that a larger display could be part of a re-designed model in a smaller bezel and the elimination of a Home button in favor of Touch ID or Face ID that is currently used in Apple iPhones. Kuo gave no indication of an A12 Bionic chip speed bump.

Thursday’s report comes after Kuo reported in mid-April that the Pad Air would boast a Mini LED display and display-based Touch ID instead of Face ID.

Apple last updated the iPad mini in March 2019 with a faster A12 Bionic processor and support for the Apple Pencil.

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