Apple is holding a major education focused event on March 27, in which the company is expected to announce new hardware targeted towards students. One of the products Apple is expected to announce is a cheaper iPad that will feature support for the Apple Pencil.
Currently only 4 devices support the Pencil including iPad Pro 9.7-inch, iPad Pro 10.5-inch and both generations of 12.9-inch iPad Pro. All these devices are high priced ‘Pro’ models of iPads while the more affordable options lack the Pencil support.
However with the addition of Pencil support in the new and cheaper 9.7-inch iPad, the company could essentially double its Apple Pencil sales, which costs $99 and bring the Pencil more mainstream.
The report comes from KGI, which predicts double Apple Pencil sales will come thanks to the cheaper iPad model Apple is expected to announce on March 27, and with next generation iPhone gaining Apple Pencil support. According to their estimates Pencil sales could go up from 4-4.5 million from last year to 9-10 million.
This new 9.7-inch iPad will be releasing the 2017 iPad that costs $329 only. This year Apple is expected to reduce its price even further making it even more affordable for students and those looking to get their first tablet.
Many are even speculating that Apple might just release the 9.7-inch iPad Pro as its budget option, as that already has Apple Pencil support along with A9X Chip, 12-megapixel camera, 9.7-inch Retina Display and more. Currently a refurbished 9.7-inch iPad Pro with 32GB storage is available for $469 whereas the cellular model is available for $579.
