With so many rumors running rampant throughout the internet about the next-generation iPhone 5S as well as low-cost iPhone, developments surrounding the iPad 5 have inconspicuously flown under the radar. However, a new report indicates that the unofficially named iPad 5 could be released in September.
According to Apple Insider, South Korean-based tech publication DigiTimes received information from an anonymous supply chain source that Apple is planning on a 9.7-inch iPad with Retina Display. Though no under the hood specifications were announced, the information points to a slimmer bezel and longer battery life courtesy of only one LED tube to back-light the display instead of the current-generation’s two. It will run on Apple’s flagship mobile operating system, iOS 7.
The report continues to note that Apple is already able to satisfy the initial demand for the iPad 5 upon its release this fall, prompting suppliers to expect shipment estimates as soon as the end of this month.
The speculations over the fifth-generation iPad also bring gossip of an updated iPad mini into play. DigiTimes further suggested that a next-gen iPad mini release could be pushed as far as next year as Apple has yet to decided whether to outfit the 7.9-inch tablet with a Retina display or not. Should the Cupertino-based electronics conglomerate elect to include a Retina display, they would also look into reducing the width of the iPad mini’s side bezels even further, according to Mac Rumors.
Why Apple would opt not to include a Retina display in it’s next-gen iPad mini is beyond me. As far as production is concerned, Apple can manufacture Retina display devices rather quickly, as evidenced by its release of the first iPad with Retina display just months after it launched the third-generation version.
It should be taken into consideration, though, that Apple is looking to break into a larger market built for more affordable devices. In comparison the iPad 2 runs for $100 less than the iPad with Retina display. The tech giant prices its gadgets notoriously high but rumors of an unprecedented low-cost iPhone indicate that they could be looking to open up its products to a demographic with shallower pockets that they’re used to.
Stay tuned to BostInno for the latest information regarding iPad and iPad mini developments. In the meantime, let us know what you think about Apple’s tablet series. Do you love them or hate them and why? What tablet do you think is a better option?
Mock-up Image via Mac Rumors
