iPad Mini 2 Release Date Set for Next Year, Slightly Updated Model Coming 2013

By Vincent Funaro, Christian Post Reporter Monday, July 15, 2013

The iPad Mini 2 release date will take place sometime next year as the company is now expected to release a slightly updated model before the end of 2013.

The next-generation version will feature a completely new design, eliminating the bezels and equipping it with a Retina display, according to a DigiTimes report.

"Apple is reportedly aiming to use Retina panel technology equipped with 2,048 by 1,536 resolution in the next generation 7.9-inch iPad mini," wrote the site. "Apple is also said to be revising the design of the chassis to give the next-generation iPad Mini an almost bezel-free look."

The improved model of the current version will arrive sometime before the end of the year.

"While the new iPad mini may not be available during the year-end shopping season, Apple reportedly may first release a slightly updated version of the current iPad Mini in the second half of 2013, which is expected to be lighter, thinner and equipped with improved specifications," added DigiTimes.

Apple has also just finalized plans for its fifth-generation tablet that will feature a design close to the mini model, according to an older report from DigiTimes.

The publication states that upstream suppliers have mostly finished preparing for the production of the new 9.7-inch iPad and that there will not be many changes made to the specifications for the device.

"Although suppliers have not yet received a firm mass production schedule from Apple and are mainly shipping products for pilot production, the sources pointed out that pilot production is already able to satisfy demand for the initial launch," wrote the publication.

Sources now expect Apple to give its shipment estimates at the end of July or early August.