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Quick prediction: Keeps the A12 chip (similar to the transition from 6th to 7th gen) and will start using the old iPad Pro / Air 10.5" shell (probably still susceptible to the bright dot issue).
Completely agree, Apple usually uses the same processor for 2 generations in a row. We may see a slightly thinner case but as rumours say, it is going to be 6.3mm thick rather than the 6.1 on the Air and Pro 10.5 which might mean the slightly thicker non-laminated display may stay. Personally, I just think it'll be a very light facelift with a thinner casing, maybe P3 for the screen and the specs left untouched to keep a gap to the Air 4. They will most likely not even give it a RAM bump as they did from 6th to 7th gen since the Air 4 has 4GB and so that would encroach onto the Air 4s territory. The Non-laminated display is easier to repair which might make Apple keep it since, in the end, this is supposed to be an iPad for schoolchildren.
 
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