Apple has been keeping mum about its iPad line as many tech fans have been on the lookout for new tablets since September. When the iPad Pro 2 did not make an appearance at the iPhone 7 launch, it was rumored that 2017 might be the next target date for the device. Now, a new rumor claims that production for the 10.5-inch version of the upcoming gadget will start sometime next month.

According to Digitimes, there will be four new iPads released sometime next year — a 7.9-inch iPad Mini, a 9.7-inch iPad, a 12.9-inch iPad Pro, and another version with a 10.5-inch screen. The media outlet reports that this information was provided by Taiwan-based supply chain makers.

It was claimed that the reason why the Cupertino-based company is releasing the 10.5-inch iPad Pro is because larger tablets, meaning those with 10-inch screens and above, have proven to be very popular among enterprises and the education sector in the United States. Apparently, the existing 9.7-inch iPad may be too small, while the 12.9-inch iPad Pro is too expensive for such procurement.

The 10.5-inch iPad Pro is said to be powered by Apple's enhanced A10X chip, which is the upgraded version of the iPhone 7's A10 chipset. Insiders claim that the same chip will also be used in the 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2 model. Shipments of the 10.5-inch tablet are projected to reach two million units in the first quarter of 2017.

The iPad Pro 2 is expected to come in the same storage options currently available, and it is also rumored to come in a new Rose Gold color variant. The tablet is said to have improved cameras and a better display, as well as a fingerprint scanner for added security. As for its price, the iPad Pro 2 is estimated to start at $799 for the 12.9-inch, 32 GB, Wi-Fi only model.

As for now, tech watchers should take these rumors with a grain of salt, as Apple has yet to confirm its plans for the next-generation device. Stay tuned for more news about the iPad Pro 2.