By Chand Bellur
May 25, 2020 at 6:09 p.m. PT
- Apple’s diminutive iPad mini launched back in 2012, providing a smaller-sized, lower-priced tablet computer.
- The current fifth-generation iPad mini debuted in the early Spring of 2019.
- Rumors suggest that Apple may refresh the iPad this year, perhaps with a larger screen.
iPad Mini: More Portable and Powerful
Tablets are frivolous yet indispensable devices. Between a smartphone and notebook computer, most people have all of their bases covered. Tablets, an in-between device, were first sold as content consumption devices. Now, Apple is trying to sell the iPad to professionals, with some success.
The iPad mini follows a similar evolution as the iPhone. Apple introduces a new device, with only one model. Over the years, they create different tiers of devices. Sometimes their products differentiate based on screen size. Other times, professional or “Pro” status, designates the superior model.
The iPad mini isn’t an iPad lite. The current iPad mini features an A12 Bionic processor, compared to the iPad’s A10 Fusion chip. You can get a faster iPad by opting for the mini if you’re not put off by a smaller screen. Both devices are approximately the same price. The iPad mini offers more power and, with a newer processor, will outlast the 2019 iPad.
Despite the iPad mini’s impressive initial sales, the device has lost favor amongst consumers. Apple still takes the product seriously. Its an opportunity to reuse many common Apple parts, such as the processor, camera, and networking components. It’s no surprise that rumors suggest an iPad mini refresh in early 2021.
New iPad Mini Coming in 2021?
Even though Apple refreshed the iPad mini in early 2019, experts believe it’s almost time for another update. Reliable Apple analyst Ming Chi-Kuo states that Apple will release a new iPad mini in early 2021. The device will feature an 8.5″ to 9″ display, with an almost bezel-free design, similar to the iPad Pro.
Of course, such a design necessitates Face ID, again in line with the iPad Pro. With slimmer bezels, there’s no room for a Home button. Since the iPad mini’s specs outclass the iPad, it’s no surprise that Face ID may adorn the next diminutive iPad.
Mini LED technology may find its way into the next iPad mini. According to Kuo, Apple is working on an iPad mini that uses Mini LED technology. This new display allows for better image quality, with more control over backlighting.
Some corporations already have products with Mini LED technology. Apple tends to take their time, to ensure not only quality but also quantity. They need to find manufacturers who can supply hundreds of millions of components. Apple can’t afford to have a highly defective product, so it tends to be conservative and innovative with new technology.
As we move closer to 2021, rumors will solidify around Apple’s new iPad mini. If the rumors are true, it could possibly replace the standard iPad. After all, if you can pack a 9″ screen in a small package, the standard iPad becomes a weak and unappealing offering.