iPad Mini 5 Rumors: New iPads Could Be Launched This Month

By Jessica Ferrera, Christian Post Contributor Friday, March 03, 2017

Despite Apple's silence about their plans for the iPad Mini line, there are reports speculating that new tablets could be launched this month.

The iPad Mini 5's predecessor, the iPad Mini 4, was released in September 2015 which means it has been more than a year since the product line got a refresh. However, reports are hopeful that the bleak future of the iPad Mini will change as, according to Alphr, Apple is most likely to introduce an iPad Mini 5 this month.

The same report, however, suggests there might not be any groundbreaking upgrade for the iPad Mini 5 apart from having thinner dimensions. It was pointed out that the iPad Mini line is a cheaper option for customers who want to try out Apple tablets. With that, the Cupertino-based technology company cannot possibly afford to pack the iPad Mini 5 with show-stopping specifications as it will also pull up the price.

Newer reports suggest that Apple will introduce a mid-range iPad Pro that measures 10.5 inches. IHS Markit director for tablets and PCs, Rhoda Alexander, told Forbes that the 10.5-inch iPad Pro would be the "sweet spot" for the productivity-focused tablet line.

However, it is also good to note that this is not the first time that the world is hearing about a 10.5-inch iPad Pro. Back in August 2016, noted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggested that Apple will introduce a mid-size iPad Pro variant.

Kuo shared (via Mac Rumors), "If the iPad comes in a larger size, such as a 10.5" model, we believe it will be helpful to bid for tenders within the commercial and education markets. As a result, we expect Apple to launch a 10.5" iPad Pro in 2017."

Alexander also told Forbes that Apple is set to introduce an entry-level 9.7-inch iPad that would only cost $299, which is way cheaper compared to the $599 price tag of the 9.7-inch iPad Pro.

With the recent announcement of new Samsung tablets with hefty specifications, Apple might be persuaded to introduce their new tablet offerings anytime soon.