iPad Mini 5 and iPad Air 3 Release Date, Specs and Rumors: Apple May Discontinue the Next iPad Devices

Aug 20, 2016 11:22 AM EDT

While Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 7 on September, many are looking forward for the launching of iPad Mini 5 and iPad Air 3. However, latest reports say Apple might not release the next iPad Mini and iPad Air. Let's check out if that it is true.

According to KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the iPad Mini 5 and iPad Air 3 many no longer happen. This is because the sizes of the iPhones are becoming bigger and they come with better specs and features. Therefore, the next iPads may no longer relevant. In addition, the Cupertino-based company could trim its older line of devices. So the Mini 5 and Air 3 may be two of the models that need to say goodbye.

However, if the devices will still see the light of the day, here are their specs. Let's start with iPad Mini 5. There are speculations that its body will be made from Series 7000 aluminum, similar to material used in iPhone 6S. It could also be thinner with 5 mm body.

Additionally, the iPad Mini 5 might have the new A10 chip, Apple's 3D Touch, and an IP68 certification for dust and water protection. Apple might also remove the standard 3.5 mm headphone jack - a move that the company would start on the upcoming iPhone 7 series.

The iPad Mini 4 was released in in September last year. However, there's a little chance that Apple will debut the Mini 5 on the same month this year. Therefore, it could come out early next year.

Now, let's see the possibility of iPad Air 3. Currently, there's 9.7-inch iPad Pro and iPad mini 4 in the line of Apple tablets. The lack of midsize tablet might give Apple an idea to release the iPad Air 3. The current iPad Air 2 came out two years ago, so it is possible the company would upgrade the gadget to keep up with the latest technology.

Interestingly, the 64GB and 128GB variants of the Apple iPad Air 2 are available on Ebay with $100 discount, and it might be an indication that iPad Air 3 is coming.  Take note that e-retailers are clearing their stocks to make way for new devices.

However, as of now, nothing is confirmed. Apple has not yer announced the development of iPad Air 3 and iPad Mini 5. So readers are advised to take the details mentioned above with a proverbial pinch of salt.