iPad mini 5 release date, specs: Apple doing away with Mini series in favor of all-Pro?

Customers gather outside an Apple store before the release of iPhone 5 in Munich early September 21, 2012.Reuters/Michael Dalder

The iPad mini 5 remains to be one of the most anticipated unannounced devices from Apple. Although it already missed its expected launch date last month, it is still expected to turn up.

The new version of the iPad mini is now rumored to be released next year along with the iPad Pro 2 models, which are expected to arrive around that time.

However, unlike the second-generation iPad Pro, the iPad mini 5 has not been a subject of leaks and reports that point to its actual existence or its development.

KGI Securities analyst Ming Chi-Kuo, whose Apple predictions have been on the nail so far, did not make mention of the iPad mini line in his latest research note, where he stated that the iPad Pro 2 will arrive in three variants next year.

Based on Kuo's statements, Macrumors brought up the possibility that the iPad mini 5 is in danger of being discontinued since the iPhone Plus models have decreased the appeal and the demand for the tablet.

Despite this, there remain rumors that the new iPad mini is coming next year and that the delay was part of the reshuffling Apple has been doing to even out its releases.

Last month, which is usually the time new iPads come out (and also marks the first year of the iPad Pro), saw an all-Mac product event.

The tablets are expected to take center stage early next year, although there is no confirmation on whether or not the iPad mini 5 will be there.

Rumor mills suggest it will and that Apple has big plans for the tablet including the addition of an Apple Pencil (which leads many to call it the iPad Pro mini), a water and dust-resistant body, and a 7000 aluminum series for a light but durable build.

Whether or not the iPad mini 5 will see the light of day, fans will have to wait up to next year to find out.