A few notable features that were introduced in 2015's iPad Pro, including the new Smart Connector magnetic port and four-speaker array, are expected to be present in the upcoming iPad 3. This is if the alleged production of third-party cases is accurate.
According to Apple Insider, photos of cases designed for a new 9.7-inch iPad were spotted recently. Based on the images, the design is largely in line with the iPad Pro, including a space for the Smart Connector. This suggests a support for connected keyboard and expansion of other accessories.
Apart from the Smart Connector space and holes for four speakers, the design also looked similar with the iPad Air 2, which itself is alike with the iPad Pro. This includes a headphone jack and lock button up top, volume buttons on the right side, and a camera on the back. Additionally, the hole cut out for the camera has been extended downward which may be an indication of a rear camera flash.
Furthermore, Cinema Blaze added that the iPad Air 3 might not have a huge performance upgrade from the iPad Air 2. It is also reported that the iPad Air 3 can have a high-resolution 4K resolution and as much as 4GB of RAM. Unluckily, Ming-Chi Kuo, a top analyst for KGI Securities, stated that the 3D Touch display will not be included in the iPad Air 3.
When it comes to release date, Trusted Reviews stated that Kuo predicted that the iPad Air 3 would debut March this year. The Air 3 might be launched along with iPhone 6C or with the 5se and other devices. But there are also rumors suggesting a late 2016 release. Previous iPad launches have been set in October, so it could be a similar case for the iPad Air 3 if it doesn't arrive next month.
The Apple event is speculated to be taking place on March 14, and it seems Apple patrons will have to wait until that date to find out for sure. Nevertheless, there's usually a 10-day period between Apple announcing a device, and the product actually going on sale. So if March 14 turns out to be the date, late March release would be really possible.
As for the price, Apple iPad Air 3 is guessed to range between £399 - £559 depending on the storage.
Aside from the iPad Air 3, Apple patrons are also expecting other devices like the rumored 4-inch iPhone and more Apple Watch styles and bands to appear on the March event. Nevertheless, the Cupertino-based company might give hints of what's coming before the upcoming occasion.
