In the upcoming iOS 12.2 update, a developer named Steven Troughton-Smith has found references to four new iPad models, and more interestingly, a reference to a new iPod, which would presumably be a new iPod touch.

It's been quite a while since Apple has released a new iPod touch, with the 6th generation models having released all the way back on July 15, 2015.

What We Know About the New iPad and iPod Touch

Unfortunately, there isn't too much information known about the new devices, other than that Apple appears to be prepping iOS to handle them.

For the iPads, the speculation from Troughton-Smith is that they'll be new iPad Mini models based on the fact that they don't have Face ID. Because the Mini is more of a budget model, it makes sense that Apple would leave off what is generally seen as more of a premium feature. There have been long-standing rumors that an iPad Mini 5 was in the works, and this definitely seems to back that up.

Additionally, of the four models, the data seems to indicate that there will two models with only Wi-Fi and two with support for cellular data, which falls in line with the way Apple releases iPad devices.

This isn't the first we've heard of new iPads on the horizon. Apparently, earlier this week Apple registered seven iPads with the Eurasian Economic Commission, so there could be three other models floating around out there. Plenty of rumors have circulated about an updated 9.7-inch iPad, and those remaining models could be different versions of that.

iOS 12.2 also references a device called "iPod 9,1". That doesn't match up with any previous iPod models. According to MacRumors, the current iPod touch models are called "iPod 7,1" in the system.

According to the report, the iPod touch would also lack Face ID, which would help keep the cost down to a more budget-friendly level. Unfortunately, not much else is known about the new iPod touch at this time, but we'll keep you posted.

When Will We Hear More?

It's hard to say exactly when Apple will announce the new devices officially. Apple usually holds an event in March, so it would make sense for the company to announce its new devices then. From there, the release will probably happen shortly after.

Can't wait for an iPad? Check out our review of the iPad Pro and see if it's the device for you.