Apple iPad Mini 5 release date, prices & specs: March 2017 launch possible; Highly-durable 32GB variant could be base model

Latest reports on the Apple iPad Mini 5 suggest that the device’s release date has been shifted to March 2017. The device could now be released at Apple’s technical event in March. Tech enthusiasts are of the opinion that Apple would be following the same pattern as to previous releases of the iPad Mini. Hence, an early 2017 release seems like a high possibility.

According to TechAdvisor UK, the Apple iPad Mini 5 could also be called the iPad Pro Mini and based on the iPad Mini 4 pricing, it can be assumed that the 32GB Apple iPad Mini 5 could cost £379 (AU$640) for the Wi-Fi only model, £499 (AU$840) for the 32GB Wi-Fi + 4G model, £469 (AU$790) for the 128GB Wi-Fi only model and £589 (AU$990) for the 128GB Wi-Fi + 4G version.

However, there has been a price hike in all Apple products. Hence, a further price rise is expected in the 2017. A 64GB variant may also be included. The Apple iPad Mini 5 is expected to be more durable than its predecessor as it could feature a 7000-series aluminium chassis. Otherwise, the design will be similar to iPad Mini 4. It will also have the 7.9-inch Retina Display.

There are innumerable rumours circulating about the Apple iPad Mini 5. Not all of them are trustworthy. However, some of the possible features are 3D Touch, Apple Pencil, IP68 Protection and iOS 10. The device may be powered by an A9 or M9 processor and 3GB RAM. Apple could make the 32GB variant as the base model.

The Apple iPad Mini 5 could be using a smaller capacity battery but the highly-improved technology won’t affect the device’s performance negatively. An 8MP primary camera and 1.2MP front camera, lightning port and NFC are some of the other specs to be included in the device.

Stay tuned on IBT AU for more updates on the Apple iPad Mini 5.