Apple sends out invites for 21 March event; may launch iPhone SE, 9.7-inch iPad Pro

Apple has reportedly sent out invites for a March 21 event at the company’s Cupertino headquarters in California at 10AM Pacific. The company is expected to launch the 4-inch iPhone SE, 9.7-inch iPad Pro, new Apple Watch bands, software updates, and much more. Though Apple has not shared any particular information as to what it will launch, the tagline in the invite reads, “Let us loop you in”.  So far, everyone has their eyes set on the new iPhone. This would also be the first time that the company would unveil a new smartphone in the first quarter of the year, unlike their traditional September launch. In terms of all the rumours, we expect the new iPhone SE to sport a smaller 4-inch screen along with a similar specs sheet, as the iPhone 6s. The device is likely to get a 12MP rear snapper, instead of the previously rumoured 8MP rear camera. In terms of design, it is likely to be similar to the iPhone 5s but with a slightly more curved 2.5D glass, which is in line with what we’ve been hearing. The new 4-inch iPhone is expected to offer 16GB and 64GB storage capacities, and a 1642mAh battery. The connectivity options include Wi-Fi 802.11 ac, Bluetooth 4.2, Live Photos support and more. The device won’t get 3D Touch, which will remain exclusive to the iPhone 6s. [caption id=“attachment_294780” align=“aligncenter” width=“640”]  Image: Steve Hemmerstoffer, Twitter[/caption] It is also known that Apple is building a 9.7-inch iPad Pro variant and not an iPad Air 3. The device is said to come with the same internals as the bigger sibling – 12.9-inch iPad Pro. According to 9To5Mac, the upcoming iPad Pro may consider adopting a 12MP camera and could be capable of shooting 4K videos too. The powerful A9X is likely to power the device and it will also get an optimised Smart Cover. The screen technology will support Smart Pencil and one can also expect quad speakers and an upgraded RAM. (Also Read:  Apple’s iPhone SE to launch on 21 March: What we know so far ) In terms of the storage and colour options, the 9.7-inch iPad Pro is likely to be no different than the previous iPad Pro. However, it is the pricing that is expected to be closer to the Air models. One should not expect Apple to shed out a new Apple Watch 2 but could expect an announcement regarding new bands and partnerships with fashion companies. Apple will likely debut the iOS 9.3, OS X 10.11.4, watchOS 2.2, and tvOS 9.2 at the event as well. A standalone update to iTunes that will enhance the Apple Music experience is also expected to be unveiled during the event.