Apple Top Event in October: iPad Mini Is Coming

Apple will launch a smaller version of the iPad later this year, possibly with the aim of competing with the 7in form factor made popular by the Google Nexus 7 (and Kindle Fire). Are we already on the cusp of another Apple keynote event? Reportedly, iPad Mini is bound to be released on October 10. Coming from a source that is an Apple investor who has been able to confirm with fellow sources, they caution that the date may not pan out as they could not verify reliability. Nonetheless, an October timeframe is in-line with other reports so it seems like a likely possibility.

It is said that the iPad Mini could be better than the current iPad. In what ways? Take a look at the brief introduction below.

General Portability

An obvious one, but as we’ve just mentioned, a smaller iPad would just generally be easier to carry about in terms of weight and size. It would be more likely to fit neatly into small bags, or indeed perhaps large pockets, and generally be more convenient and portable.

Augmented Reality

Augmented Reality is a lovely use for a smartphone or tablet, but lugging a full-size iPad around, then whipping it about to virtually explore the region around you, is just asking for trouble.

In addition to the risk of whacking folks walking past you, you're going to look like a bit of an idiot. With an iPad mini, this sort of usage would be more palatable, and less likely to get you into trouble clouting a passer-by.

eBooks

A full-size iPad is essentially a two-handed device – great for browsing the web and watching video, but a bit awkward while trying to read Fifty Shades of Grey on a crowded train. That’s where an iPad mini would have another advantage.

Driving Games

Most driving games (not all) allow you to use the iPad or tablet as a steering wheel, turning the entire tablet to steer right and left.

Camera

It's just awkward to hold up a hefty tablet to take a picture, and it draws attention to yourself in a way that an iPhone or other smartphone doesn't. (Perhaps that's why there are no camera settings on the new iPad).

Some rumours have pointed to the fact that the iPad mini will lose the camera to keep costs down – so if you’re not a fan of tablet cameras, you won’t be paying for something you don’t use. Other speculation has indicated that there will be a rear-facing camera, but even if that’s the case, at least with the mini-slate’s more compact nature, you’d get away with some photo-snapping to a greater extent.

Price

We can assume that a smaller iPad will be cheaper, right? That means more money to spend on apps, videos, food, and of course more beer. And who can argue with more beer?