Don’t get too comfortable with your 9.7 inch-display iPad.
Rumors are circulating that a smaller version of the famous tablet is on its way. Since the iPad’s release in 2010, about 67 million devices have sold worldwide. This number is projected to grow significantly—experts say by at least 20 million—following the anticipated November release of the iPad Mini. Analysts predict the Mini’s 7.8 inch display will create a more comfortable user experience. This downsized iPad (or upsized iPod) will contend with Google’s Nexus 7, Samsung’s Galaxy Tab, and Amazon’s Kindle Fire. These competitor tablets all measure close to 7 inches and have been the go-to reader for PC users. People who saw the iPad as heavy or clunky would certainly be swayed by the opposition—until now.
Apple “updates” are often ridiculed for being unsubstantial or too similar to previous versions. We have to wonder—are we wrong to think this is another familiar ploy to entice consumers? It is estimated that the Mini will come at a discounted price to make up for the lost space. While Apple has yet to make a formal announcement, loads of tech gurus say the release is expected sometime this November.
Considering the iPhone 5 and its recent release flop, industry professionals are anticipating the Mini to have similar features to match. The iPhone 5 sports a new charge system complete with a “lightning cable tip”. The direction the cord is inserted will no longer cause users to jam plugs into the charger outlet, which often results in broken hardware. The cord will also maintain compatibility with previous versions of the iPhone and iPad. The Mini’s smaller display will likely make icons more condensed and easier to tell apart. With 9.7 inches of screen to fill, previous iPad models seem full of unused space between icons. It’s possible the Mini will live up to its trendy design perks and actually benefit iPad users. A smaller device would be more lightweight, portable, and easier to use. Increased mobility and a more efficient hand-to-tablet ratio are brilliant selling points. Buyers will be ramped up just in time for Black Friday. The new ergonomic details match the iPhone 5’s new hand-to-screen ratio as well. When Apple makes their announcement, trueITpros will be ready to write a review. So, will you go Mini?