DigiTimes: Apple has shelved the 12.9-inch iPad Pro

DigiTimes reports that Apple hasshelved its 12.9-inch iPad Pro project. According to the outlet, thereason is that large-size tablets "lack support from relatedplatform developers and ecosystems", which implies many things.Perhaps these tablets need better productivity apps and otherexperiences that better utilize their screen space and justify theirprice premium.

Reportedly, Apple was planning 2K and4K version of the iPad Pro, along with keyboard covers akin toMicrosoft's Surface offerings. But the company hasn't, and isn'texpected to comment on these rumors, as it has a strict "don'tcomment on rumors and speculations" policy.

So far, it's Samsung at the helm ofPro-sized tablets. Alas, even though Sammy's Galaxy Note Pro12.2-inch behemoth is a great device, it can't be called a good dealfor the money. The report rightfully notes that its price toperformance ratio is weak compared to notebooks in its price range($750+). Thus, the researchers estimate the tablet will achievearound one million shipments throughout 2014.

It seems that 2014 won't be the year oflarge-screen tablets – especially if Apple, a huge tablet vendor,is refusing to walk down this path. On the other hand, the popular 7and 8-inch consumer slates will be incrementing their displaydiagonals little by little, as to better compete with premiumofferings.

For example, DigiTimes predicts thisyear's Nexus tablet by Google will have an 8.9-inch display whileretaining its low cost. If it succeeds at the market, the researchersbelieve that more tablet manufacturers will switch to selling uppermid-range devices.

source: DigiTimes