IHS Markit predicts that apple is planning to restructure its iPad product line. The 9.7-inch model is expected to be discontinued in the second half of 2019 and will be replaced by a new 10.2-inch model.

Current Apple iPad product line: 7.9-inch, 9.7-inch, 10.5-inch, 11 inch and 12.9-inch models

It is reported that the 10.2-inch iPad has the same body size as the 9.7-inch model. Removing the home key to expand the screen size will not affect its portability.
The iPad is the first tablet with a 9.7-inch display. It is reported that in 2016, 30million 9.7-inch TFT-LCD displays were used in tablet computers including iPad. In 2017, this figure increased to 36million. In 2018, this figure decreased to 35million.
The report also points out that the display suppliers of the 9.7-inch entry-level iPad include BOE, LGD and sharp. The 9.7-inch model is expected to be discontinued in the second half of 2019 and will be replaced by the new 10.2-inch model.
IHS Markit said that the new 10.2-inch model will be a new entry-level iPad and will maintain a 4:3 aspect ratio. The panel production of BOE and LG began in June, and the final product release is expected to be in the fourth quarter of 2019.