It has long been rumoured that Apple will refresh its iPad line this spring. Several reports have suggested that the Cupertino firm could even announce iPad Pro 2 - in 12.9 and all-new 10.5-inch sizes - this March, alongside a new 9.7-inch iPad Air and 7.9-inch iPad mini.

However, DigiTimes claims that the launch and release date for all of the devices might not happen until May or June, based on information it has received from sources in the supply chain.

It suggests that iPad component suppliers and makers, TPK and Foxconn, are predicting poor first quarter financial results because of the delay. They are expected to pick up the following quarter because of orders from Apple for construction of the new devices.

Apple is long overdue an iPad refresh, especially when it comes to the iPad Air. The iPad Air 2 was released at the tail end of 2014 and while the 9.7-inch iPad Pro is critically revered, it is very much a premium, expensive tablet. Rumours suggest that a new iPad Air (iPad Air 3?) would be a cheaper alternative for the larger screen size.

If they turn out to be true, Apple will have four different devices in its range, catering for all tastes and uses.