The iPad Mini 5 was expected to roll out in March this year, but Apple did not unveil the device. It was then rumored to launch this past October, but again, it was not present during Apple's event. It is now expected that the iPad Mini 5 will be released in March 2017 but only if it was not already canceled.
According to MacWorld, the iPad Mini 5 is long overdue, and it may launch in March 2017 during Apple's next Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). However, the tablet may no longer be branded as the iPad Mini 5 and may instead be referred to as the iPad Pro Mini.
This would mean that the iPad Mini 5 will take the place as the 9.7-inch model of the iPad Pro. As such, it will come with some of the newer features seen on the iPad Pro lineup and will adapt some of the changes introduced in the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus.
Some of these may include out-of-the-box iOS 10, a USB Type-C port, and a lack of a 3.5mm earphone jock.
Rumors also suggest that the iPad Mini 5 or iPad Mini Pro will also sport a new body made from series 7000 aluminum. This will make it the thinnest and lightest iPad to date. It will also make it more durable. This type of metal casing was used for the iPhone 6s.
When the tablet is released, it is expected to start at over $390 for the base 32 GB model. This price might shoot up to over $610 for the 64 GB model with both WiFi and 4G connections. It is uncertain if a 128 GB model will also be included in the lineup.
It is important to note that Apple has yet to confirm or deny any of these rumors. It is likely that the iPad Mini line has been canceled or that Apple is just biding their time for a proper unveiling next year.
