I'd rather have fast graphics than a retina display.
Me too. Given that the iPad Mini is already like 70-80% to Retina and looks rather good if you aren't a spec snob
I would say these things are more important than a Retina Display
1. Faster more stable general processor
2. Faster more stable graphics processor
3. More storage
4. More RAM
5. Cameras with better light sensitivity and better zoom
6. Better sound both input and output
7. 802.11 AC with adhoc wifi support (so I can connect directly to say an Apple TV even if there's no actual Internet connected network around)
8. Better brightness and brightness control especially for working outside
9. Better screen sensitivity for handwriting with finger or stylus
10. Less glare
11. Better coatings to avoid picking up oils etc, and better ease of cleaning
12. Glass that is more durable to scratches and drops
13. Buttons that don't get smashed to death in four months
14. (This one is for all ioads). Modular repair form including replacing those buttons, broken glass, batteries etc. I know many folks will be like 'whatever' but if you have to pay for an out of warranty repair cause you didn't get apple care plus having to pay say $100 for a new screen rather than $200 for a whole new unit over a giant scratch from your keys makes more sense. Not having to spend two hours setting up a unit new over that screen or a button or a camera etc is good for many of us.
I would also like to see them change up Apple Care to either the period to buy it a big longer and make phone support free for the whole basic year. I wouldn't mind Apple hooking up with a company to provide loss/theft insurance as well. Not part of Apple Care perhaps but something where you could sign up at Apple, go to them for the replacement. Maybe the same with phones.
I would also like to see them provide more how to stuff on their site to stop folks from coming in for a tech appointment to basically get a class. Plus at least in the US there is nothing that says how long the appointments are, makes clear that most phone techs can't do computers also etc. I'm in the stores a lot and I hear all kinds of stuff like 'I didn't know it was only one device' or 'nothing said I would be cancelled if I was late' or (my fav) 'what do you mean you can't tell me my (service not remotely related to apple) password'. They get so much traffic now they need to revamp and streamline and get folks to not have to go into stores or not turn up for things that Apple can't do