iPad Air 3 release date, specs rumors: Next Apple slate and iPad Mini 5 releasing together later this year?

 [photo: YouTube Screen Capture/CTNtechnologynews]

Fans have been waiting for a long time for Apple to update its iPad lineups outside of the iPad Pro iteration. Speculations suggest that later this year, the Cupertino-based tech giant will reveal the much-awaited iPad Air 3 and the iPad Mini 5.

According to rumors, Apple is targeting an October unveiling for the new slates. While The Cupertino-based tech maker is reportedly holding a launch event next month, it will be for showcasing the iPhone 7 and the Apple Watch 2. This will have Apple schedule two separate late-2016 events for its new product lineups.

As for the rumored October event, Apple will reportedly highlight the much-awaited iPad Air 3. Previously, the new iPad Air slate is said to release last year, but Apple decided to re-schedule its intended release and instead went for an iPad Pro launch. The planned October debut of the iPad Air 3 is already its fourth supposed unveiling date, since the iPad Air tablet failed to appear at the March launch event and this year's WWDC event.

Meanwhile, it is said that Apple is also planning to release the next iteration in its iPad Mini lineup, and that the two slates will have co-release schedule. This means that fans may expect both the 9.7-inch iPad Air 3 and the 7.9-inch iPad Mini addition to be revealed at one press event, and quite possibly along other lineups like the new MacBooks.

As to what fans can expect from the new iPad tablets, it is said that the iPad Air 3 and iPad Mini 5 will feature improvements and major upgrades over their predecessors. This means a bump in under-the-hood specs like processor and RAM, and may even feature new details like improved 3D Touch, a new display tech, and overhauled body and design.

News
Sarah Mullally reiterates apology as safeguarding record comes under the spotlight
Sarah Mullally reiterates apology as safeguarding record comes under the spotlight

The incoming Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally, has come under pressure over her handling of past safeguarding cases. 

Evangelical vicar accused of abuse won't stand trial
Evangelical vicar accused of abuse won't stand trial

A leading figure among conservative evangelical Anglicans will not stand trial for alleged abuse, it has emerged.

Church of England bishops delay final decision on same-sex blessings
Church of England bishops delay final decision on same-sex blessings

The Church of England's House of Bishops has postponed a final decision on the Living in Love and Faith process as it continues to work on proposals. 

Faith in the festive chaos: how you can sustain your family’s faith this Christmas
Faith in the festive chaos: how you can sustain your family’s faith this Christmas

Anna Hawken, Parenting for Faith from BRF Ministries, has some helpful tips for families to connect with God in the midst of the "December tornado".