I submit this as proof that killing the 10.8 size is/(would be) a mistake.
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Apple will launch a trio of new
iPad Pro models in March, including refreshed 9.7-inch and 12.9-inch versions and an
all-new bezel-free 10.9-inch model, according to Barclays Research analysts Blayne Curtis, Christopher Hemmelgarn, Thomas O'Malley, and Jerry Zhang, citing sources within the company's Asian supply chain.
In a research note obtained by
MacRumors, the analysts said the 10.9-inch model's borderless design will allow for it to be the same physical size as the current-generation 9.7-inch iPad Pro. That means the display itself will need to have an edge-to-edge design, possibly signaling the
removal of the Home button.
Multiple rumors have claimed Apple is developing a new iPad in the 10-inch range, but the exact screen size has varied in each report.
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With Apple 's new focus on business customers it's no surprise to me they are making a 10.x inch model. IMO it's the sweet spot for productive portability, big enough to sport a normal sized keyboard, more useable screen size than a 9.7 model.
It should be noted the performance of the A10X chip will be in the core m range, far exceeding any Atom SoC. performance wise it's "good enough" for the majority of business workload use cases.