Next generation of iPads set to launch on 22 October

According to Current Editorials, the tech giant could announce a new iPad mini as well as an improved iPad – dubbed iPad 5 – on 22 October. This would be almost a year to the day since Apple’s CEO Tim Cook unveiled the first generation mini, and the release would see the tablets go on […]

According to Current Editorials, the tech giant could announce a new iPad mini as well as an improved iPad – dubbed iPad 5 – on 22 October.
This would be almost a year to the day since Apple’s CEO Tim Cook unveiled the first generation mini, and the release would see the tablets go on sale in time for Christmas.
Previous reports suggested Apple would launch successors to its current range of tablets at an event tomorrow, but this has now changed.
Apple historically launches products on a Tuesday, making them available for pre-order the following Friday, before putting them on sale the Friday of the week after.
This suggests any new devices announced on 22 October will be on sale by 1 November.
Leaked photos have already hinted at what the tablets could look like, including a range of colourful cases, and in an investor note, analysts state Apple could also be working on a 13-inch model.
In the note, Barclays Equity Research claimed the latest 64-bit architecture – seen in Microsoft’s new Surface 2 tablet – could pave the way for a 13-inch iPad designed to appeal to laptop users.
The 64-bit models are said to be more powerful and can handle more multitasking functions.  
Rumours in August also claimed suppliers in China had been asked to ship larger displays, potentially for use on new Apple products.