The latest buzz regarding the Apple iPad 5 and iPad Mini release date situation, seems to indicate these new tablet devices are on the way by September. The rumors have been driven even more by recent price reductions by some retailers who stock the iPads.
A report on May 23 from IBTimes.com indicated that just last week Walmart slashed the price of current iPad models by about $30, which could hint that newer models are on the way. Additionally, other sources have reported that Walmart is running out of its stock of various models of the device. One of the items they have reduced prices on is the "entry level iPad Mini," which has been dropped from $329 down to $299. An anonymous Walmart employee also told Stabley Times that he doesn't expect their stock of the 64GB iPad Mini to be restocked any time soon, which definitely seems to indicate that these current models are being cleared out.
So what should consumers expect from the iPad Mini 2? IBTimes notes that it will have a better screen resolution at about four times that of its predecessor, or 2048 x 1536. Additionally, it will include a more powerful processor, 7.9-inch screen, 10-hour battery life, a FaceTime HD camera, and an iSight camera featuring 1080 pixels of HD video recording. The thickness of the device could also be improved upon if Apple uses indium gallium zinc oxide technology, also known as IGZO, by Sharp.
The iPad 5, which will be the bigger brother of the mini version is said to have no bezels, with a serious change in its design and form factor. The main issue will be how Sharp can meet any demand that Apple has for components for the new tablets, as they have struggled in the past to deliver. If Apple can get things aligned with Sharp, then most likely expect the newest iPad to feature the aforementioned IGZO technology for its screen.
There are currently no release date for Apple's iPad Mini 2 or iPad 5, but Apple typically has press events around fall, or possibly October, to reveal new devices in time for the holiday rush.
Do you currently own an iPad? What would you like to see the new iPads have as far as upgraded technology or features?
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