Everything you should know about Apple's upcoming low-cost iPad
Apple will host its first big launch event of the year on March 27 that will focus on the theme of education. The company is highly expected to launch a cheaper iPad at the event, which could be propositioned as a classroom tool for educators and students. The entry-level, 9.7-inch iPad could cost $259, marking a 20% drop from the current price of $329.
The new iPad might come with Apple Pencil support
According to reputed Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the new iPad might feature Apple Pencil support. This is believable on three grounds: stylus support is common in devices targeted at students, the event invite features a hand-drawn and cursive Apple logo, Apple is doubling up its Apple Pencil production to 10 million units in 2018. As of now, only the iPad Pro supports Apple Pencil.
Apple can launch multiple models of the new iPad
It can also not be ruled out that Apple might be looking to launch multiple models of the cheaper iPad- one as an education tool for $259, and another with Apple Pencil support as a refreshed model of the existing iPad priced at $329.
It will feature 9.7-inch display with larger bezels
For supporting Apple Pencil, the new iPad's display will have a digitizer layer underneath the glass to read the Apple Pencil. This means the low-cost model won't feature the True Tone display technology where the white balance of the screen is matched with the surrounding light. The 9.7-inch display will reportedly come in the standard 4:3 ratio with larger bezels.
iPad to run iOS 11.3, keep low on storage capacity
The new iPad should run the iOS 11.3, which will debut something called the ClassKit for the device. No points for guessing, the new software keeps in line with the iPad being student- and education-centric. The device shouldn't feature a high storage capacity and will position iCloud as the likely destination for all content. Apple can, however, unveil more iCloud storage for students.
Other features that the low-cost iPad might sport
The iPad will reportedly feature the ability to 3D render items for interactive learning. It can also support the Smart Connector for low-power accessories that will turn the tablet into a word processor.
