iPad 5, iPad Mini 2 Release Date Rumors: iPads Expected In Q4 Of 2013; Apple To Reveal Lower-Cost iPad In 2014

Apple is planning on releasing a fifth-generation iPad and a second-generation iPad mini before the end of this year. The release date news for the iPad 5 and the iPad Mini 2 comes from KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who has a proven himself as a reliable source in regards to Apple's product plans. Kuo has released a new research report outlining his expectations for Apple's iPad and iPad mini lineup through the end of 2013 and into 2014.

Kuo who is expecting to see the iPad 5 and iPad Mini 2 in Q4 of 2013, also predicts that both devices will be powered with the new A7X chip. If the new tablets do in fact feature Apple's upgraded chip, iPad Mini 2 will experience a serious processor upgrade. As for the iPad 5, the new processor will help support a Retina display featured in the next-gen tablet. "Since iPad Mini 2 will feature better resolution with retina display, we think its AP will have the same grade as iPad 5, the A7X," stated Kuo. Component shipments for Apple's two new tablets will reportedly begin to increase through the end of this quarter, with production reaching its peak in the fourth quarter of the year, in line with previous expectations for a fall launch.

Kuo also reports that Apple had initially intended to launch the Retina iPad mini in early 2014, but in order to remain competitive and relevant within the multiple small high-resolution tablets hitting the market, they accelerated development. Kuo believes that "the iPad mini 2 may be pulled in for launching in late 2013. Since other brand vendors are all expected to have a line-up of new high resolution 7-8" tablets to launch over the next 3-6 months, we think iPad mini 2 may lose its opportunity in the market if it is slated for introduction next year."

In addition to increasing development speed on the iPad Mini 2, Kuo predicts that Apple is currently working on a new series of iPad mini models that will be set for launch in 2014. Mac Rumors reported that the new 2014 iPad would be based on an A6 chip and carry a non-Retina display, allowing Apple to offer a lower-priced iPad mini line.

Apple's media event on Sept. 10 should bring a flurry of exciting news and devices, the event will mainly focus on the next-gen iPhone and the release of Apple's new operating system, iOS 7. The iPad 5 and iPad Mini 2 are rumored to be released at a later date.

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