KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently published a research note that predicts the iPad Air 3 will be released in the first half of 2016, sans 3D Touch capabilities. Kuo says the new tablet is unlikely to include 3D Touch capabilities due to issues in Apple’s supply chain.
Kuo also believes the iPhone 7’s pressure-sensitive 3D Touch display will have “similar technology and structure” as the iPhone 6s. The report confirms the iPhone 7 will be released in 2016, likely around Apple’s usual September timeframe.
3D Touch has proven to be a popular feature on Apple’s flagship iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus handsets. The technology offers pressure-sensitive access to Quick Action shortcut menus or the ability to preview content from within compatible apps via “Peek” and “Pop” gestures.
A number of developers have found creative uses for the pressure-sensitive technology, including using it for navigation and control in games, and to quickly create new messages, calendar events in reminder apps, or posts in social networking apps such as Facebook and Twitter.
