iPad Pro 2018 release date, specs rumors: Latest reports suggest next premium tablet's resemblance to iPhone X

Official render of the iPad Pro.Apple website

The iPhone X launch last September has sparked a new design trend in the smartphone industry, with upcoming new handsets expected to feature the same signature notch of Apple's latest phone flagship. Based on the latest rumors, the iPhone X impact is also felt by the Cupertino-based firm's other gadgets, particularly the iPad Pro series. In fact, leaked images of the iPad Pro 2018 suggests that the premium tablet will adapt an all-screen front design and a notch area, akin to the 2017 iPhone version.

While the iOS users were delighted with Apple's latest preview for the iOS 11.3, tech experts were able to find an interesting code from the upcoming minor update. A specific line of code hints that the latest iOS version is designed for a "modern iPad," a phrase that 9To5Mac compares to that time when Apple was just about to launch the iPhone X. With this, it is heavility speculated that the iPad Pro 2018 will undergo the same treatment as the new iPhone, sporting a brand new design and features.

According to Tech Radar, it is likely that Apple will apply an all-screen display for the iPad Pro 2018, with the tablet's bezels further trimmed down. The next iPad Pro version could get much slimmer bezels than the current 2017 iPad Pro with a 10.5-inch display. Furthermore, the iPad Pro 2018 following the iPhone X's footstep will not be complete without the notch feature. To note, the iPhone X notch includes the necessary sensors for the Face ID, and the upcoming iPad Pro is expected to boast 3D facial recognition technology as well.

If the iPad Pro 2018 does have the Face ID, it is uncertain if the tablet will still keep the fingerprint Touch ID feature. Although, it is more likely that the new iPad Pro will rely solely on facial recognition to unlock the device and authenticate app transactions. In order to fully imitate the iPhone X, the Touch ID button below the iPad Pro screen could be removed, making way for an immersive full view display.

The iPad Pro 2018 is rumored to appear at this year's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June.