Recently, KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said in a research note to investors that Apple will release a 10.5-inch iPad Pro next year alongside the 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2. The iPad Pro’s popularity among professionals has helped Apple boost the iPad revenue for the first time in two years, thanks to its higher price tag. A new report from Bloomberg claims that the Cupertino company is working on the hardware and software upgrades for the iPad Pro, besides the new Macs.
iPad Pro 2 may include a ‘faster display’ technology
Inside sources told Mark Gurman of Bloomberg that the software upgrades for the iPad Pro include wider support for Apple Pencil. The new software features could be rolled out in the first half of 2017 as part of an upgrade to the iOS 10. The iPad Pro 2 is also said to feature a faster display technology that will make zooming, panning, and scrolling much smoother.
The refreshed Mac lineup includes new versions of MacBook Air and iMac, a slimmer MacBook Pro, and a standalone monitor in partnership with LG Electronics. The monitor will boast of a high-resolution 5K screen. Apple’s goal with new Macs is to maintain sales at current levels even as other PC makers see a decline in sales.
Next-gen MacBook Pro to have a digital function row
The thinner MacBook Pro is said to have a flatter keyboard with a digital function key display above the keyboard. Internally codenamed “Dynamic Function Row,” the digital function row will allow users to perform common tasks more easily. For instance, it will show you a virtual representation of the standard function keys when you are on desktop. When you open an app, the virtual row will display options specific to the task at hand, along with an option to switch to the default function row.
The new Macs are expected to be unveiled by the end of this year. Meanwhile, Apple fans are looking forward to the September 7 event, where the tech giant is expected to announce the new iPhone 7 and 7 Plus alongside the Apple Watch 2.
