When Apple introduced its 9.7-inch iPad Pro at its event in Cupertino today, it also nixed the iPad Air from its lineup.

The iPad Air, which ranged in price from $399 to $579, is gone, but the iPad Air 2 remains, ranging from $399 to $529.

The new 9.7-inch iPad Pro, which starts at $599, joins its 12.9-inch sibling, which was introduced last fall. Another Pro model helps to further differentiate the line of iPad Pros from iPad Airs, just as Apple already does with its MacBook Pro and MacBook Air. People can now choose another model with the Pro name and souped-up features, including more storage, a faster A9X processor, and the ability to connect with a Apple's Smart Keyboard case. And this iPad Pro's 9.7-inch screen makes it a bit more manageable in the hands compared to the larger Pro.

Apple is known for its limited selection of products, which can simplify the process of choosing which device to buy. In recent history with Tim Cook at the CEO helm, Apple's selection of products has grown to reach a greater variety of physical sizes and price points. Case in point: iPad Pro.

Before this event, prospective customers could choose from five models of iPads ranging from $269 to $1,079: iPad Pro, iPad Air 2, iPad Air, iPad mini 4, and the iPad mini 2. Now, you can spend as much as $1,229 on the 256GB, 12.9-inch iPad Pro.

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