Hi,
I still don't believe in the iPad mini. Instead of quoting rumour sites and looking at third-party case photos, let's reason about the why Apple would do this.
To me, several factors speaks against an iPad mini:
- The current iPad already dominates the table market (some 70%). Cook commented on this in the latest earnings call.
- Fragmentation of the iOS platform. Developers would be required to develop for a third screen size.
- Size is a tweener (Steve's famous words). The (3.5") iPhone is perfect as a one-hand, pocket device. The iPad is perfect as a two-hand device for surfing the web and watching films/TV. An iPad mini would not fit a pocket, but would still be to small for the web and films/TV.
On the other hand, I see several signs that Steve's Apple is fading away. The brilliant principle of just making the best possible device for the customer. If the launch an iPad mini, I feel that looking at the competitors too much. They would become like every other computer maker, spewing out a lot of product and waiting to see what sticks.
Some other example of Apple's demise:
- The Maps fiasco. Now we know that they got loud feedback from developers, but decided to go ahead anyway.
- ML battery life problem. The latest update has not solved it for me (MBP mid 2009) and a lot of other people. Basically, my battery life is 50% of what it was in Lion.
- iPhone 5 form factor. I think it's not a natural screen ratio, and I can't comfortably operate with my thumb (even though I'm 6'2 and has large hands). Perhaps Apple felt the lack of new features, and therefore decided to go with a 4" screen?
Anyway, would be interested to hear your reasons why Apple would launch an iPad mini.
Daniel
PS. I have been an Apple fan since to original iPhone came out. Have also made some good money on Apple stocks and options since them.