As we get closer and closer to Apple's rumored fall event, expect reports about an even bigger iPad to reach a fever pitch. Even though Apple typically waits until October to reveal new iPads, speculation is sure to continue.
The latest rumors surrounding the alleged 12.9-inch iPad Pro come courtesy of Ming Chi-Kuo, an analyst with KGI Securities (via 9to5Mac), who suggests that Apple will likely start manufacturing the larger iPad at some point between September and October. He claims it should come with a stylus that will work in conjunction with the device's presumed Force Touch capabilities.
Of course, it's still unclear whether said stylus—if it even exists—would come bundled with the iPad or whether it would be sold as an optional accessory. Knowing Apple, we can see the company taking the latter route (and selling the stylus for a fairly large sum). However, a huge iPad is uncharted territory for the company, so it's certainly plausible that Apple might include it.
"With regard to the present technologies, we believe if the Force Touch module for iPad is designed using the same structure that was used in the iPhone, the larger size may result in a poor yield rate. This is why we think a stylus may be necessary to make Force Touch work properly on the 12.9" iPad. We also believe a Force Touch-enabled stylus will enhance productivity as it would offer more precise operation than using only fingers. Technically, we believe the stylus can be made compatible with iPad models other than the 12.9" version, but it depends on the support of software," Kuo wrote.
Details about the supposed new iPad Pro—rumors, really—are a little scant, but current speculation has Apple launching a 2,732-by-2,048-resolution device (263 pixels per inch). That should give users the ability to run two (nearly) full-sized iPad apps at once, thanks to the new split-screen features in iOS 9. It's also plausible that the iPad Pro might support USB-C, for those who want to connect supplemental devices like keyboards and such, but we haven't heard very much about that.