It has been previously believed that Apple will be launching the iPad Air 3 tablet in a special yet-to-be-announced event on March 15 this year.

However, according to Apple news website 9to5Mac reporter Mark Gurman, Apple will instead launch a 9.7-inch version of the new iPad Pro. This will be similar to Apple's MacBook Pro laptops that come in 13-inch and 15-inch displays.

This smaller iPad Pro is said to have nearly the same features and specifications as the 12.9-inch model, such as the A9X processor, four stereo speakers and updated display technology for Apple Pencil support. It will even has its own Smart Keyboard Case.

If the 9to5Mac's report is true, the 9.7-inch iPad Pro will be announced at the March 15 and ship as soon as March 18.

With the rumoured 9.7-inch iPad Pro's launch, we will probably see the discontinuation of iPad mini 2 and the first iPad Air.

In addition, the new 4-inch iPhone 5se and new Apple Watch band options are expected to be launched at the March event. For those waiting for Apple Watch 2, it will probably be later this year.