Apple might launch a smaller iPad Pro next spring - with a headphone jack

The iPad doesn't get predictable yearly updates like the iPhone, which means consumers are usually guessing as to when Apple will refresh its line of tablets.

The rumor mill is suggesting that Apple will revamp its iPad lineup next spring with three new iPad Pro models, according to Japanese Apple rumors blog Mac Otakara. We first saw the news on MacRumors.

The report suggests Apple will launch a new 7.9-inch iPad Pro, which will gain the productivity-focused features that had previously been exclusive to the 12.9-inch and 9.7-inch iPad Pros.

Those features include a Smart Connector for keyboard cases, an improved display, stereo speakers, and a better camera.

According to Mac Otakara - which has correctly called pre-release Apple features in the past but has also incorrectly predicted new products as well - all three new iPad Pro models will have headphone jacks, unlike the iPhone 7.

Apple will likely update its two bigger iPad Pros with better cameras and screens. The company is expected to launch new Mac laptops this fall.

Notable Apple soothsayer Ming-Chi Kuo previously suggested Apple could launch three new iPad models in 2017 ahead of a major redesign in 2018.