A few of my current thoughts as an average consumer:
In favor of March 2013:
-The iPad mini is novel but not particularly compelling when you look at the specs. I expect the mini and full-size iPad to be released together going forward and the mini will need an update soon to stay competitive.
-Apple's premium-pricing is predicated on distancing itself from the competition and there are some excellent competing tablets on the way.
-This iPad update did not change the weight or design of the iPad. Among the most common complaints against the iPad is that it's too heavy. Apple is always pushing for lighter mobile devices. I can't see them keeping this form and weight for another year. Changes in design drive sales like nothing else.
-They left out a number of new innovations. Why hold them back for another year?
In favor of October 2013:
-Good for holiday shopping. The March release date is awful in this regard.
-In many aspects of their business model, Apple seems to be increasingly deviating from their guiding principle of simplicity. Sticking to a simple annual release schedule could shore up that element of their brand.
I'm thinking we will see a new iPad early next year. That another update in less than 6 months will again irritate or anger those who buy the iPad 4 is not a persuasive argument. A small minority is upset about this update, and if Apple was willing to risk that once, I think they would do it again.
In favor of March 2013:
-The iPad mini is novel but not particularly compelling when you look at the specs. I expect the mini and full-size iPad to be released together going forward and the mini will need an update soon to stay competitive.
-Apple's premium-pricing is predicated on distancing itself from the competition and there are some excellent competing tablets on the way.
-This iPad update did not change the weight or design of the iPad. Among the most common complaints against the iPad is that it's too heavy. Apple is always pushing for lighter mobile devices. I can't see them keeping this form and weight for another year. Changes in design drive sales like nothing else.
-They left out a number of new innovations. Why hold them back for another year?
In favor of October 2013:
-Good for holiday shopping. The March release date is awful in this regard.
-In many aspects of their business model, Apple seems to be increasingly deviating from their guiding principle of simplicity. Sticking to a simple annual release schedule could shore up that element of their brand.
I'm thinking we will see a new iPad early next year. That another update in less than 6 months will again irritate or anger those who buy the iPad 4 is not a persuasive argument. A small minority is upset about this update, and if Apple was willing to risk that once, I think they would do it again.