iPad Pro 2 release date, specs rumors: Only small design changes expected, but headphone jack might be removed?

The iPad Pro 2 is one of the most awaited devices from Apple, but those who are looking for a massive design tweak on the sequel will have to look elsewhere.

It is being said that the giant tablet will get some big changes in the design department as Apple focuses on bulking it up on the inside.

According to KGI Securities Ming-Chi Kuo, the iPad Pro 2 will be powered by the A10X processor, the latest and most powerful version of Apple's very own line of chipsets.

However, there are reports going around that the second-generation iPad Pro will do away with the 3.5-millimeter, much like the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus.

There is no confirmation for that yet although Apple appears to be considering the possibility. The company is in fact looking into removing the headphone jack from the MacBook Pro as well, at least according to a survey it sent out to its users.

Meanwhile, Bloomberg has also reported that the Cupertino-based company wants to focus on software upgrades by making the most of the all new iOS 10 operating system.

One of the tech firm's biggest focuses is the Apple Pencil, which, as per the above-mentioned site will be designed into "a handwriting and drawing stylus aimed at professionals."

The stylus will give the iPad Pro 2 users the power to annotate objects across the whole operating system not just in certain applications. Apple currently only has this possible in specifically developed apps.

But for the iPad Pro 2, the Apple Pencil will allow users to make annotations across the board in various applications including Mail, the Safari web browser, and iMessage.

With regards to the release date, the iPad Pro 2 is expected to be released early next year with a new 10.5-inch iPad Pro and the low-cost iPad with 9.7-inch display.