iPad mini 5 release date, specs news: Apple may unveil the tablet on March 2017

Since the iPad mini 5 wasn't unveiled at any of Apple's press events this year, potential buyers are now wondering when the company would show the device. Is it being developed right now, or is Apple planning something else?

Rumor has it that Apple may announce the device on March 2017 along with the iPad Pro 2. Now, the question is: Is the new iPad mini going to be called the iPad mini 5? Or will Apple rebrand and call it the iPad mini Pro? If Apple opts to rebrand the tablet, it will mean the end of the iPad mini line of tablets.

Whatever it is called, the tablet should come with a much-needed upgrade in specs. Reports say the device will come in three different display sizes: 9.7 inches, 10.5 inches and 12.9 inches. Buyers can also decide which storage capacity to get: 32GB, 64GB or 128GB.

Sources believe the tablet will have 3GB random-access memory (RAM), an A9 processor, an M9 motion coprocessor, USB Type-C ports, a stylus Apple Pencil and a Retina display that supports pressure sensitive touchscreen technology. It will also have an 8-megapixeel (MP) rear camera and a 1.2MP front camera. The tablet may not feature the best cameras but it more than makes up for it with other features.

Furthermore, it is rumored that the device may feature a 7000 series aluminum chassis, which means it is going to be durable. The iPad mini 5 will allegedly ditch the 3.5mm headphone jack and use a lightning connector just like the iPhone 7. It is also believed to be dust- and water-resistant. The device will supposedly run on the latest version iOS 10.

As of this moment, Apple has yet to announce that the iPad mini 5 is under development. Until they make a confirmation, all reports concerning the tablet are rumors at best, so readers are advised to take everything with a grain of salt.