In April 2005, Digitimes “unearthed” a rumor that Apple will release a mini version of the iPad in January 2011. Some liked it, but some didn’t because they thought that they already own one in the presence of their iPod Touches/iPhones. Yesterday, August 4, the rumor resurrected in the article released by iLounge, “Leaked Details On 2010-2011 iPods, iPhone 5, Bumper 2 + iPad mini”. iLounge, like Gizmodo is known to be an accurate harbinger of Apple news in the blogging industry.
Apple stores will be filled with iPod lovers this coming Christmas (or even earlier) because, according to their reliable source, the availability of the new iPods is imminent. So, the iPod isn’t dead yet after all. The new iPods include the new Nano, Touch (hopefully with front and back facing cameras) and another touchscreen replacement for the iPod Shuffle.
The iPad Mini, or whatever they will call it, will debut in a smaller (7″ screen) but similar look later this year or in the 1st quarter of 2011. In June 2010, Steve Jobs said, ““There will be 10’s of millions of FaceTime devices this year”. He was probably referring to the brewing plans to put front and back facing cameras on the new iPad. It would be huge upgrade if Apple would put Retina Display in this version.
iLounge also stated that with so much controversy surrounding the iPhone 4, the availability of the iPhone 5 looms in the 1st Quarter of 2011.
Meanwhile, while the iPhone 4 fiasco is at its peak, iLounge’s source stated that Apple is currently working on a cheaper version of the Bumper to give away after September. This could be true and just in time for the October-release of the iPhone 4 in the Philippines through Globe Telecom.
The rumors may be true or not, but I need to know your comments, reaction and speculations. Hit the comments section below.
Giancarlo Viterbo is a Filipino Technology Journalist, blogger and Editor of gadgetpilipinas.net, He is also a Geek, Dad and a Husband. He knows a lot about washing the dishes, doing some errands and following instructions from his boss on his day job. Follow him on twitter: @gianviterbo and @gadgetpilipinas.
