If you work at an executive position for Apple – the pride of Cupertino, California – then you’re probably used to the “rock star” treatment.
If you work at an executive position for Apple – the pride of Cupertino, California – then you’re probably used to the “rock star” treatment. And no, we’re not referring to the illicit substances and groupies after a day’s (or night’s) work. We’re referring to the rumors and innuendo that comes with the territory if you’re a rock star or Hollywood actor.
One of these many rumors is connected to the iPad. Shortly before the death of Apple founder Steve Jobs, there had been talk of an “iPad Mini”, a smaller version of Apple’s market-dominating tablet computer. The late Mr. Jobs was never a fan of this concept, however, chances of such a product eventually being available in retail stores seem to be increasing as the months pass.
According to recent reports from Asia, Apple is ordering 7.86-inch screens from Samsung, which would imply a miniaturized version of the new iPad’s 9.7-inch screen. This could be a telltale sign an iPad Mini is in the works, though again, these are just rumors that shouldn’t be taken too seriously until somebody from Apple confirms them once and for all.
If the rumors are true, though, the iPad Mini could possibly cost about $300 to $350.
Most analysts believe it would be beneficial if Apple releases a smaller iPad, as it would help undercut the budget tablet competition, such as the Amazon Kindle Fire and possibly the forthcoming Google Nexus. Analysts have long warned against the threat of budget tablets to the iPad’s market share, as there is a growing market for these simple, yet affordable (and usually Android-powered) slates.