Apple iPad Air fans are in for bad news. The Cupertino-based company is reportedly opting against the release of the long-rumored iPad Air 3 to launch a smaller model of the iPad Pro instead.

New reports are suggesting that Apple is altogether retiring the "Air" moniker and is simply adapting the "Pro" designation for its future iPad iterations, including the supposed iPad Air 3.

That being said, the so-called iPad Air 3 or the iPad Pro Mini, as the web now calls it, should boast specs that go with that of its big brother. Rumors have it that the features of the tablet might be even better than the ones in the 12.9-inch model.

The iPad Pro Mini is expected to sport a 9.7-inch display, smaller but much better than the iPad Pro's since it will include brightness and anti-glare enhancements. Another exciting upgrade comes in the form of a 12MP rear-facing camera, which is definitely higher than the original iPad Pro's 8MP.

This 12MP shooter is purportedly on par with the one on the Apple iPhone 6s, and just like the unit on the flagship smartphone, it can capture 4K resolution videos. On the front, users are looking at a FaceTime HD camera.

To make this iPad Pro Mini more redoubtable, Apple is integrating screen technology that will allow it to run the Apple Pencil. A Smart Keyboard will allegedly be included, as well as a Smart connector and quad speakers.

The supposed iPad Air 3 is also expected to have an A9X processor humming under its hood with a bigger amount of RAM. In the design department, Apple is expected to keep the light and sleek form the iPad Air family is known for.

The iPad Pro Mini is expected to be launched on March 21, according to the latest reports. Previous rumors hinted at a March 9 and March 15 release. However, Buzzfeed and Recode are claiming that the iPad Air 3 is releasing on the said later date along with the 4-inch Apple handset known as iPhone SE and some Apple Watch bands.