Does Apple really need to hold a media event for the iPad mini?

[dchao]

I don't have cable, haven't had it for years (since I got my gen 1 ATV!), but I am a perfect target for an iPad Mini, as long as it's got good specs. I want a hi-res device that is smaller than the iPad (I have a MacBook Air so I don't want or need another large-display device, plus I have a Kindle which is the most perfect size for holding and reading and carrying and...).

If Apple release an iPad Mini that is a smaller iPad 2, I (as a former IT marketeer) would recommend they *don't* hold a launch event, so as not to invite scorn and ridicule for releasing a product that is inferior to competitors for a higher price. If they release the Mini with *superior* specs, I'd scream it from every rooftop on the planet, "we have a great new device, queue up and give us your money."

I have been cable-less for a few years too. My ATV and iPad is my entertainment center already.

BTW: Apple are planning to sell 10M mini's for this holiday season. If it's not priced below $199, I can't see how they can achieve this number.

http://appleinsider.com/articles/12/10/08/wsj-apple-ordering-over-10m-ipad-minis-for-q4

I think Apple will also have a more expensive model with the retina display. Like KF and KF HD

 

[WilliamLondon]

I have been cable-less for a few years too. My ATV and iPad is my entertainment center already.

BTW: Apple are planning to sell 10M mini's for this holiday season. If it's not priced below $199, I can't see how they can achieve this number.

http://appleinsider.com/articles/12/10/08/wsj-apple-ordering-over-10m-ipad-minis-for-q4

I think Apple will also have a more expensive model with the retina display. Like KF and KF HD

From your lips to Tim Cook's ears!

I hope they do have two versions, I suggested it as a possibility on this forum (but was mostly poo-poo'd) as it'd address both the market that wants smaller *and* cheaper, and the market that wants smaller without compromising specs, the one in which I am a member (i.e. iPad MiniHD!).

Fingers crossed! If no Mini, I'll check out the Kindle Fire HD, and the Nook (which has superior screen resolution), and only as a fallback position will I consider the iPad3.

 

[duggram]

Just like the title says. What do you all think?

No, just tell me when and where to pre-order. But for the general public it wouldn't hurt.

 

[Signor S.]

Of course they will have a media event for the iPad mini. It all revolves around marketing. Apple sends out invitations, media goes frantic deciding on what the features will be yada yada, and finally the media event is held.

If all Apple did was update their online site, who will find out besides us here on MacRumors? Nobody. This is why there will be a media event. Not sure what the price will be, but I believe it will happen.

I can see apple also updating some of their other products like the iMac at the event as well.

 

[mjar]

I think the event will not be spiceal to the rumored iPad mini. Maybe they will update the desktop macs: Mac mini, Mac Pro and iMac.