Apple has been given the go-ahead for two new iPads, hinting at an imminent refresh.

The company filed for approval with the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC), and both devices were granted permission this week. Apple has also been given approval to bring several iPhone and iPad “samples” into the region.

Apple introduced its most affordable iPad last March, which means the 9.7-inch device is almost due for a refresh. There has been no concrete evidence that Apple was planning new models for early 2018, however — until now.

New iPads approved by EEC

Two new Apple tablets have this week been granted approval by the EEC, which oversees Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. The devices have “A1893” and “A1954” model numbers, which do not correspond with existing iPads.

The filings don’t tell us much about these devices. But it does suggest that an Apple announcement is imminent. A number of iPhone and iPad samples with “AA” and “CC” model number prefixes have also been approved.

iOS 11.3 hints at “modern” iPads for 2018

Code in the latest iOS 11.3 betas has hinted at “modern” iPads coming in 2018. The upgrades are expected to feature Face ID, and could have an edge-to-edge display with significantly slimmer bezels like iPhone X.

It’s likely that this code references the next-generation iPad Pros, which probably won’t arrive until a little later. Apple’s most recent iPad Pro updates were confirmed at WWDC last June, which means they’re only eight months old.

If you’re hoping for a new 9.7-inch iPad, however, you might want to get your credit card ready.

Via: Consomac