[NewsPoster]

Apple's latest upgrade to the iPad line is, as expected, a smaller version of the iPad Pro. The iPad Pro 9.7-inch keeps the same 9.7-inch display size as the iPad Air 2, just as the name suggests, but as the rumors previously suggested, Apple is bringing over effectively all the major features of the first model into the smaller form factor.

The screen this time is a True Tone Retina display, one that is said to measure the color temperature of ambient light using two four-channel sensors, adjusting the screen's color to best suit its surroundings. It is backed by an Apple A9X system-on-chip, just like the larger version, making it as powerful as a current-generation game console.

Incorporated from the iPad Pro is support for the Apple Pencil, the stylus that allows it to offer pressure sensitivity and angular detection to improve the user's diagrams and artwork. The quad speaker system has also transitioned over to the smaller form factor, which provides twice the audio volume of the Air 2. On the back is a 12-megapixel camera, with Focus Pixels, 4K video, a dual-tone flash, new signal processor, Live Photos, and able to take panoramas up to 63MP in size, while the front is a 5-megapixel FaceTime HD camera.

On the side is a magnetic connector, similar to the one used by the iPad Pro, allowing it to transfer power and data to a keyboard cover, and have the same automatically hidden keyboard as the larger stablemate, when connected to the smaller Smart Keyboard accessory.

With the new product lineup, the original iPad Air has been removed from sale, as well as the 128GB version of the iPad Air 2. The Entry-level iPad Air 2 at 16GB is now $399, a $100 price cut.

The 9.7-inch iPad Pro will be available in a choice of four colors and three capacities, with the 32GB, 128GB, and 256GB models priced at $599, $749, and $899 respectively. Cellular versions of all capacities are also available, and cost $130 more than the Wi-Fi versions. Pre-orders start from March 24, with shipments starting from March 31.

[pastusza]

No more 16 gig for anything Apple. Just stop it.

[Steve Wilkinson]

Ok, aside from the goofy camera, this does look like a great update for my VERY long in the tooth iPad 2. But, given that camera, maybe better off to just go for the reduced price Air 2? How is this thing going to even lay nicely on a table? Am I missing something?