New Nexus 7 release has been going through the rumour mill since early this year, alongside the unofficial talks surrounding iPad mini 2 release. Android and iOS users are being teased. Most recently, a manufacturing analyst has implicitly stated the Nexus 7 second generation will not be called Nexus 7.7, after all. And it will come out sooner than iPad mini 2.

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Based on some supply chain data, an analyst has told CNET Nexus 7 second generation will come out sooner than iPad mini 2. Panel production for the next small Apple tablet will happen around the third quarter, said DisplaySearch analyst Paul Semenza.

In contrast, panel production for the next Nexus 7 will take place around the second quarter. The new Nexus 7 release date could then fall within the second quarter of the year, just in time for Google I/O. The much-anticipated Google I/O event launched the first generation of Nexus 7 in 2012. So there is some plausibility in the idea that a Nexus 7 second edition would come out at the same annual event.

Early reports indicated the next small tablet from Google will be called Nexus 7.7 in reference to its new screen display size. Semenza's scoop reconciled with earlier reports that Google will feature a 1920 x 1200 HD+ display in its new product. But early reports mentioned a pixel density of 294 ppi (pixels per inch). Semenza's forecast included a display with a higher 323 ppi, which matches a 7-inch screen.

Webstermiller, a CNET reader, has commented some thought to ponder: "As the normal Android phone approaches 5", how much longer will there be a market for 7" Android tablets?"

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On the other hand, iPad mini 2 release date will be around the third or fourth quarter of 2013. Semenza also "confirmed" a higher resolution for the next iPad mini. Also based on supply chain data, the analyst said panel production for the mini will begin after the Nexus 7 has enjoyed a headstart.

Those considering shopping for a Nexus 7 device should be alert for price drops. If Semenza is on the right track, the next month or so could be a great time to get a Nexus 7 3G 32GB. Then again, you'd probably want to get the newer model.

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