14 DAY TRIAL // A research note from Evercore analyst Patrick Wang seems to confirm widespread reports of Apple developing a bigger-size iPad for enterprise and education. Wang says we should expect the 12-inch tablet PC to arrive this year.
Sporting a screen larger by over three inches (when measured on the diagonal), the iPad Pro, as some refer to it, will take on the enterprise environment with hardware and software meant to bridge the gap between tablet and notebook.
Wang explains, “Arriving in fall ‘14, Apple goes Enterprise with an 12” iPad. Powered by the A8 chip (perhaps 4C), this expands ARM’s reach and, once again, transforms the traditional notebook market as we know it.”
He adds, “Expect a 2-1 hybrid – think iPad + MBA – similar to how most iPads are used in the workplace and in the same spirit of MSFT’s Surface.”
Apple has been rumored for quite some time to be developing a larger iPad featuring a 12.9-inch screen (which actually comes closer to 13 inches, rather than 12).
The Cupertino giant currently sells two major versions of iPads, one full-size iPad featuring a 9.7-inch Retina display, and a smaller-size iPad mini boasting a 7.9-inch Retina display.
Older versions of the same form factors are also available, but with standard-resolution displays.
A 12-inch/13-inch iPad would mark the entry of a third, pro-level model, which would undoubtedly cater to big companies, creatives, teachers, and students.
Thanks to its powerful (yet unconfirmed) A8 chip, the iPad Pro could well become a snazzy gaming machine, now that accessory makers are rushing to provide support for their third-party controllers.
Price-wise there are no details so far, but Wang estimates that using a proprietary A-series chip will definitely mark an advantage in the bill of materials.