This comes from Korean publication ETNews (via G 4 Games) who has pegged the tablet’s release for 2016. This will no doubt be a bit of a bummer for users who were hoping to get their hands on the tablet this year, but given that it is a rumor it should probably be taken with a grain of salt for now.
Apart from a possible 2016 release, the report also claims that Apple will be going with a different touchscreen technology for the iPad Pro. At the moment Apple’s touchscreen displays rely on ITO-based clear film, however with the iPad Pro Apple is said to be interested in using AgNEW touch panels with silver nano wire coating.
Why is this? Apparently the silver nano wire coating has greater accuracy and sensitivity, and also allows for multiple pressure levels which seems to confirm earlier rumors of Force Touch being introduced to the tablet. The use of AgNW tech is said to be cheaper as it does not use rare materials such as indium. Apple is expected to refresh their iPad lineup later this year, but whether or not a new tablet will be announced remains to be seen.