Apple is set to launch new iPad models in the first half of 2019, according to Taiwanese supply chain website DigiTimes.
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One of those new models is expected to be the so-called iPad mini 5, but anyone hoping for a major redesign should lower their expectations, as Japanese blog Mac Otakara reports that the tablet will have a similar design as the iPad mini 4. The information comes from the blog's discussions with accessory makers.
Mac Otakara claims the iPad mini 5 will have identical dimensions as the iPad mini 4, including a thickness of 6.1mm, suggesting that the tablet will have the same 7.9-inch display if bezel size remains unchanged. The blog also expects the tablet to retain a Lightning connector, Touch ID, and 3.5mm headphone jack.
One design change expected is the repositioning of the rear microphone to a top-center position in line with the sixth-generation iPad.
The report claims it is unclear whether the iPad mini 5 will have an A10 Fusion chip akin to the iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, and sixth-generation iPad, or an A10X Fusion chip in line with 2017 iPad Pro models and the Apple TV 4K.
It's also unclear if the iPad mini 5 will support the original Apple Pencil, but second-generation Apple Pencil support seems to be ruled out.
Top Rated Comments
Here’s to hoping for Apple Pencil support.
If the Mini 5 is simply a Mini 4 with updated processor, w/Apple Pencil 1 support, and priced under $300... Boom!This will please a lot of people. Let's hope they don't fold like a hot Mars bar the moment someone picks them up...
The Pros don’t do that either.[doublepost=1549891269][/doublepost]
Sincere Question: Why would Apple want to keep two pencils in stock? That makes no sense to me. Apple likes simple, that would complicate things. I rather saw the 2nd Gen Pencil as a replacement moving forward.
They can still make $ on the education, business, art, etc segments that use iPad 6th gens.So far, only the iPad Pro 2018 can use the 2nd gen Apple Pencils.