The iPad Mini might have changed the future of the 9.7-inch iPad.
The 7.9-inch iPad Mini has been performing better in sales, even in media attention, compared to the iPad 4, which made its debut with the Mini last October.
Despite the popularity of the iPad Mini, an analyst noted it won't stray Apple away from the full-sized iPad. In fact, a new report stated the fifth-generation iPad is set to launch during the third quarter of 2013.
"Firstly, for the improvement on product design itself, the next generation of iPad will apply the thin GF2 touch module of the same level as iPad mini and use the narrow bezel panel design to solve the issue of larger volume, thickness, and weight that have been criticized to gain a better balance for consumers in mobility and visual experiences," said TrendForce analyst Eric Chiou.
Chiou's statement comes after a report from Macotakara noted the next iPad 5 will have the same GF2 display technology as well.
The next iPad also had Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster stating a potential release date will be in April. He further wrote about how the iPad 5 will be similar to the iPad Mini as well.
"We believe Apple could update the full-sized iPad to a body style similar to the iPad Mini," Munster wrote. "Additionally, we believe that the iPad Mini could get a Retina display, although that may happen later in the year given the supply constraints Apple faced on the Mini in the December quarter."
Overall, most reports note the iPad 5 will be redesigned to resemble the features of the iPad Mini, but what isn't clear is the launch date. Apple did reveal the iPad 3 in March 2012 and the iPad 4 in October 2012, and most speculation points to there being a first-half 2013 launch.
One difference from previous analysts is that Chiou commented on the iPad 2's future.
"Secondly, it is to underline the product positioning, the long-beloved iPad 2 is expected to retire with honor with the reveal of new iPad."
If the iPad 2 does discontinue, it will follow the iPad 3's phasing out, which disappeared from Apple.com as soon as the fourth-generation tablet made its debut.
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