If manufacturers want to bring new devices onto the market, they must first register them with the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC).
While Apple updates the iPad Pro models every fall, the entry-level 9.7" iPad has already been updated twice in a row in March. According to some rumors, Apple plans to update the 9.7" iPad in the first half of 2019. In addition, the iPad Mini 5 is set to follow after a long break. Now these speculations are being fueled by new entries in the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC).
Seven new models
Seven new model numbers in the tablet computer category have recently appeared in the EEC database. These are: A2123, A2124, A2126, A2153, A2154, A2133 and A2152. All models are said to run on the iOS 12 operating system - Apple provided this as additional information.
iPad 9.7" successor
According to rumors, the inexpensive entry-level model could be replaced by a 10" model. This is to be achieved by narrowing the edges. It remains to be seen which biometric decryption method the inexpensive iPad will be equipped with. The introduction of a new Touch ID sensor is possible. A new patent for this was announced at the beginning of December.
As a result, the cheaper iPad could be equipped with a fingerprint sensor under the display. Similar information has already been provided by suppliers. The Taiwanese company General Interface Solution (GIS) and the Chinese manufacturer O-Film Tech are among those supplying this technology. Face ID is more complex to produce and costs more. For this reason, facial recognition will initially be reserved for the more expensive iPad Pro models. By installing this new fingerprint sensor, the cheaper iPad model could be refreshed in terms of design and the home button could be eliminated - without significantly increasing production costs.
iPad mini 5
In addition to an improved display, the processor of the iPad mini 5 will most likely also be revised. According to the current report, the 7.9" iPad will be offered at a particularly low price. Whether this will ultimately be the case remains to be seen. The next keynote is currently expected in March or April. In addition to new iPads, Apple could present the second generation of AirPods and the AirPower charging mat. There are now indications for both products that point to an imminent market launch.
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