iPad Mini 5 release date, specs news update: 7.9-inch display, 3D touch technology, A9 processor

Apple fans continue to look out for the arrival of the iPad Mini 5. Many were expecting it this month because the iPad Mini 4 was released at roughly the same time last year. Unfortunately, it did not show up and only the Apple Watch 2 and the iPhone 7 were launched.

So now, fans are left wondering when the successor of the iPad Mini 4 might come out.

The Cupertino-based tech giant did not release any information regarding the device but according to speculations, the iPad Mini 5 is most likely to be unveiled at an event held in March next year. Apple has been known to launch new devices in March so this is definitely a possibility. This year, Apple unveiled the iPhone SE and iPad Pro 9.7.

With regards to the tablet's specs and features, reports said that the iPad Mini 5 will be coming with pressure-sensitive 3D Touch technology. This means that the device will be more efficient, resulting in heightened productivity for users.

Aside from that, the purported Apple tablet is said to sport a 7.9-inch retina display. Earlier leaks also suggested that compared to older models, the iPad Mini 5 will be thinner. From 6.1 millimeters (mm) thin, the iPad Mini 5 will become only 5 mm. This led to several speculations that the device will eradicate the 3.5 mm jack just like what the company did with the recently released iPhone 7.

Reports also said that it will be equipped with the improved A9 processor which comes with 12-core seventh-generation PowerVR graphics. It will be packed with 32 GB built-in storage and 3 GB of RAM as well.

Word also has it that the new tablet could be dust-proof and water-proof. The cameras will remain the same with an 8-megapixel rear camera and 1.2-megapixel front camera. As of now, nothing is certain yet so it's best to take reports with a pinch of salt.