14 DAY TRIAL // In addition to offering a supercharged iPad Air 2 on Wednesday, Apple plans to throw in an updated version of the mini tablet as well. This one will be less powerful, but it will ship with Smart Covers and Smart Cases in a wider range of colors, according to sources in the Far East.
The iPad mini is to the iPad Air what the iPhone 5c is to the iPhone 6. A lower-specced device that does almost just as much for less money. It makes sense to target these devices to the appropriate audiences without blowing through the manufacturing costs and resources.
Incoming iPad mini 2 with Retina display
According to sources in the Far East, the iPad mini 2 continues this trend by sporting not the A8X chip, but the same A8 chip that you’ll find in the iPhone 6. The iPad mini’s relatively small display doesn’t necessarily need the extra GPU power in the A8X (though it wouldn’t mind getting it), so Apple won’t have to charge you extra.
Another thing worth noting is that, according to separate rumors also stemming from Asia, the iPad mini will be the only line of Apple tablets to retain the entry-level 16GB storage option this year. iPad Air 2 is reportedly ditching this option and will now start at 32GB minimum.
The Retina-enabled second-generation iPad mini is expected to launch tomorrow alongside the iPad Air 2. In addition to the A8 chip, the mini is also getting the small redesigns also found in the Air (recessed buttons, simpler speaker grills, etc.) as well as new color options, but only in the form of cases and covers.
According to Macotakara, the iPad mini range is getting different colors, not necessarily extra ones.
Pricing and availability
iPad mini has never been a problem as far as manufacturing is concerned. This conveys to smooth shipping and rapidly-fulfilled orders. The device starts at $399 / €389 at the moment and there’s no reason to believe Apple will increase the price point.
As every year goes, the price will most likely stay in place while the specs will go up a tad. It’s the only way to keep people buying. Even an extra dollar can take away the incentive to upgrade from an older model.
Join us tomorrow for full coverage of Apple’s event hosted at the Town Hall auditorium in the company’s Cupertino, California campus.