Analyst Predicts Apple Will Release 12-Inch Hybrid 'iPad Pro' This Fall

As part of his 2014 predictions, Evercore Partner Analyst Patrick Wang believes Apple could release a larger 12-Inch hybrid 'iPad Pro' model later this fall, with a next generation A8 Processor.

Wang sees the 64-Bit architecture of the A7 that was just released in the iPad Air as a "game changer" that puts all the pieces in place for an iPad Pro that could shake up the notebook industry. In particular, Microsoft has been trying (and mainly failing) to takeover with its hybrid type Surface Tablets running Windows 8. Apple CEO Tim Cook has been on record for saying he felt Surface tablets were 'confusing' and that the user experience on the iPad is 'incredible.'

Some believe the naming convention of the new iPad Air, borrowing from the MacBook Air, could signal that Apple plans to release a professional-grade iPad, akin to the MacBook Pro in its notebook lineup. A 12-inch display would put such a device in a class closer to Apple's 11.6-inch MacBook Air. To date, all full-size iPad models have had a 9.7-inch screen, while the iPad mini models have sported 7.9-inch displays.

Rumors have pointed to Apple testing larger panels for iPads and iPhones, but Wang doesn't see Apple simply releasing a larger iPad. With the larger screen size, he predicts the devices could serve as both a tablet and a netbook -- appealing more to both businesses and consumers. 

via AppleInsider