New iPad Pros with faster chips and a 10.2-inch budget iPad coming in 2019

Aside from that long-expected fifth-generation iPad mini, Apple’s tablet plans for the 2019 calendar year apparently include two new iPad Pro models with upgraded processors along with a refreshed $329 iPad with a slightly bigger display.

The next iPad mini will also get an upgraded processor, TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo told clients in a research note Sunday. The thorough memo, obtained by AppleInsider, doesn’t lay out the reasons for blowing up the 9.7-inch $329 budget iPad’s panel.

Bloomberg was first to report that Appel was prepping an updated version of the 9.7-inch iPad with a bigger display and a faster processor. The 10.2-inch replacement for the $329 9.7-inch budget iPad could launch in the first half of 2019, probably as early as the spring.

Apple’s $329 budget iPad modelmay sport skinnier bezels to accommodate a bigger display, which is how the 9.7-inch iPad Pro increased its screen size to 10.5 inches.

Assuming the physical dimensions remain intact, the budget iPad will need skinnier bezels to boost screen size. Because high-end features like Face ID and ultra-thin bezels are guaranteed to stay exclusive to the iPad Pro line, it’s safe to assume that the $329 iPad would reduce the size of its side bezels akin to the now discontinued 10.5-inch iPad Pro.

As for the rumored iPad mini 5, it’s thought to look the same like its predecessor so don’t be holding your breath for that iPad Pro design with minimal bezels, a rounded screen or Face ID.

But hey, it should be cheaper! that the current 128GB $399 Wi-Fi model.

The iPad mini line has proved quite popular thanks to the compact form factor, lightness and attractive price. If rumors are true, people who preferred the pricing and compact design of iPad mini will finally have something to look forward to.

What do you make of Kuo’s predictions?

Chime in with your thoughts in the comments section.