Previously, it was reported that Apple plans to out a new iPad Air early this year. However, it seems that the expected iPad Air 3's release is to be moved anew, and this time to make way for a "Mini" version of the iPad Pro.

According to Telegraph, speculations suggest that the small iPad Pro will be on par with the professional-level hybrid in terms of specs and performance, and will also support the same features such as Apple Pencil and four corner speakers.

This means that the new iPad Pro will feature the A9X chipset from last year's release, as well as up to 4 GB of RAM. In addition, the 2016 Apple release will also come with the same storage and connectivity options, meaning there will be a 32GB version, and a 128GB variant that comes as Wi-Fi-only and with Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity.

Meanwhile, MacWorld adds that one improvement in the 2016 iPad Pro "Mini" will be in the camera department. Reportedly, the smaller iPad Pro will carry a 12MP shooter with 4K features, which is also the same camera setup found in the iPhone 6 and 6s Plus. This is a significant improvement from the current iPads (both Pro and Air 2), which carry an 8MP camera.

According to 9to5Mac, the new iPad Pro will have a smaller display, down to a 9.7-inch screen, compared to the 12.9-inch display of the original iPad Pro. The industry follower added that Apple coming out with an iPad Pro in this dimension may mean that the company is shifting to a more simplified tablet lineup, and may also spell the end of the iPad Air.

The new iPad Pro "Mini" is originally slated to appear on March 15. However, Apple delayed the event and rescheduled it for March 21.