As things seem to be shaping out right now, Apple’s fans might have to wait a li’l longer to lay their hands on the second generation iPad Mini equipped with the Retina display. As stated by Digitimes, Apple has no plans of starting production of the iPad Mini 2 until late this year, which as per the Digitimes report is due to the lack of retina display panels in adequate numbers. The Cupertino based company surely needs to have a steady stock of the 7.9 inch Retina display to kick off volume production of the tablet. Sources maintain Apple is planning to use panels having a resolution of 2048 X 1536 in the next generation iPad Mini. Apple is also believed to be introducing significant design changes so as to give a bezel free look to the device.
The first gen iPad Mini already impressed with its looks, what with its super thin profile and narrow bezels along the sides. The tablet has been an instant hit with rumor mongers claiming the next 9.7 inch iPad too might have similar looks as its Mini counterpart. While this will be a welcome change to the iPad design which has been more or less the same since its inception three years ago, a bezel less look for the iPad Mini no doubt can be the game changer in the segment.
Meanwhile, those who wish to have the second gen iPad Mini sans the Retina display won’t have to wait long. Digitimes is claiming that Apple will be launching an updated version of the mini iPad later this year itself. According to the predictions, both iPhone 5S and iPad 5 is expected to make a debut this year. The latter is already believed to have made it to the production lines this month with shipping slated to begin from August. Apple is looking forward to shipments of 2 to 3 million units in August or September which might increase by 25% to 30% in October.
Tim Cook has already stated they have lots of interesting stuff to show off from this fall and the wait might well be worth it.