Apple to Launch Cheaper 9.7-Inch iPad in 2018: Report

Apple is planning to launch its most affordable 9.7-inch iPad in 2018, according to a new report. The tech giant will reportedly announce a new version of the regular-sized iPad at a price point of $259 (roughly Rs. 16,700). This is even lower than the $329 (roughly Rs. 21,200) price tag of the 9.7-Inch iPad launched in March this year - which at that point was its cheapest full-sized iPad.

The new launch, reported by Digitimes, is said to be a bid by Apple to get into higher-volume, price-conscious markets with a hope to revive iPad sales that have been falling since the 2014 record highs. Apple has been aggressively pushing its iPad range with cheaper prices on the regular variant and major yearly updates for the iPad Pro.

The report does not provide details on whether the $259 iPad will replace or accompany the 2017 9.7-inch iPad. In the second case, the newer model might just be a slightly toned down version (specification-wise) of the current iPad with a similar design and camera sensor. If true, this will be the most affordable full size iPad from Apple.

This new iPad will reportedly be manufactured by Apple supplier Compal Electronics, and is expected to launch in the second half of 2018. Apple is said to be looking to target affordable Android tablets by offering users a cheaper option to switch to iOS.

Despite the great news for Apple fanboys, this report is to be taken with a pinch of salt as there is currently no confirmation from Apple or its supplier, and is based on a speculative leak that might have been prompted by cheaper internals for the next iPad. Stay tuned to Gadgets 360 for regular updates on the launch.