Leak Suggests 10.5-inch iPad Pro Could Be Unveiled at WWDC

It was previously rumored that Apple would be holding a spring event to showcase its latest 2017 iPad models, however spring has just about come and gone, and all that was released in its midst was a modestly revamped, albeit super-affordable 9.7-inch iPad. Of course, that leaves the fate of Apple’s other two iPad models, which were also expected this spring, in question.

Although both a 10.5- and a 12.9-inch iPad Pro were additionally rumored for a spring 2017 release, a leaked image that circulated the web earlier this week may shed some light on when the smaller of those two models could be unveiled.

Appearing to show the stock system at one Apple Authorized Retailer, the image was shared earlier this week with 9to5mac, and shows the impending inventory assignments for iPad cases manufactured by Urban Armor Gear. Specifically, the image reveals an array of a UAG-manufactured ‘Metropolis’ Folio cases compatible with several different iPad models. Most notably, however, would be the three cases designed for a 10.5” iPad in Black/Silver, Cobalt/Silver, and Magma/Silver color options. Interestingly, the data pegs the cases as “New! Due June 2017,” which may suggest that Apple’s 10.5-inch iPad Pro is right around the corner.

Rumors about an all-new 10.5-inch iPad model have been circulating for several months now, and were spearheaded by KGI Securities analyst, Ming-Chi Kuo, who back in August of last year alluded to the forthcoming device in his firm’s research note. Most notably, according to Kuo, the 10.5-inch iPad Pro was said to feature a substantial redesign, boasting a nearly one-inch large display packed within the same footprint of Apple’s 9.7-inch iPad.

The 10.5-inch iPad Pro is expected to feature a nearly bezel-less form factor, and has previously been rumored to ditch the iconic Home button for an under-the-glass Touch ID solution. Given that Apple has been having trouble implementing said Touch ID solution on its top-tier iPhone 8, however, it’s highly unlikely that the feature will debut on iPad — at least for the foreseeable future.

Apple is scheduled to host its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) from the 5th through the 9th of June, whereat the next major releases of iOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS will be showcased. It’s also rumored that Apple could use its WWDC keynote to show off some new hardware, as well, including an all-new Siri speaker, which will likely go head-to-head with similar offerings like the newly released Amazon Echo Show. Could Apple also use WWDC to show off the newest member of its iPad family? It’s possible, but we’ll just have to wait and see what’s in store. Be sure to check back with us on the morning of June 5th, starting at 10 am PST, for live updates on what’s happening at WWDC 2017.

[The information provided in this article has NOT been confirmed by Apple and may be speculation. Provided details may not be factual. Take all rumors, tech or otherwise, with a grain of salt.]