While rumors pointed to its existence prior to its unveiling, fans were still surprised when Apple launched a new iPad Pro at the company's March 21 event. Some observers had expected that the lineup would be expanded with the much-rumored iPad Air 3. Now that the new iPro has started shipping out, fans are asking if there will even be a new iPad Air, given that the specs of the new iPad Pro mirror – or even outdo – the features of the iPad Air lineup.

Many were surprised when Apple revealed that the new Pro iteration is basically a smaller version of the professional-level tablet hybrid. Meanwhile, observers do not call the new iPad Pro a "scaled-down" version since most of its specs are similar to the original iPad Pro launched last year. The new iPad Pro also carries the A9X chipset, and while the Cupertino-based company is not in the habit of announcing RAM capacity, it is said that the smaller iPad Pro carries at least 2GB.

According to MacWorld UK, Apple releasing a 9.7-inch iPad Pro is significant as this may signal the end of the iPad Air lineup. Reportedly, the new iPad Pro will be taking the place of the rumored iPad Air 3 in the tablet lineup, marking the iPad Air 2 the last version. The industry follower added that as a subtle hint, the current price of the iPad Air 2 has already dropped significantly from its original price tag.

The Verge also noted that the smaller iPad Pro bears resemblance to the iPad Air lineup, and can even be mistaken for an iPad Air 2 at first glance.

However, Apple may yet surprise its fans with the iPad Air 3 this year, since the company has remained silent on the matter.