iPad Mini 5 release date, specs, news: Thinner tablet device to come out in March 2017?

A promotional image for the iPad Mini 4Apple

Rumors about the iPad Mini 5 continue to come out after the device was not unveiled during the latest earnings call of Apple in early October.

Latest reports claimed that the Cupertino-based tech giant is gearing up to release the device with other upcoming products like the iPad Pro 2. According to a report from MacWorld UK, there is a possibility to see the fifth-generation iPad Mini rebranded as the new iPad Pro Mini since it will be unveiled with allegedly the iPad Pro product line.

Other reports also claim that the rumored iPad Mini 5 will be thinner compared to its predecessors. PC Advisor also claims that the new iPad Mini 5 will come out with an aluminum body cover that is thinner and sturdier compared to the past models.

In terms of its processor, the upcoming version of iPad Mini features the A9 processor and M9 motion co-processor. It might also omit its 16 GB variant, which means that its minimum storage option will be 32 GB, just like the new iPad Pro. However, its camera features are not expected to change. This means that the next version of iPad Mini will be released with an 8-megapixel primary camera and 1.2-megapixel front-facing shooter. The 7.9-inch Retina screen is also not expected to change, but it could possibly come out with the company's signature 3D Touch feature.

Other rumored specs of the upcoming iPad Mini 5 include the tech firm's high-end stylus called the Apple Pencil, the IP68 certification to make the device water-resistant, as well as the inclusion of NFC to make it compatible for making purchases under the Apple Pay program. The device is also expected to ditch the standard 3.5mm headphone jack, just like the latest iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus.

However, Apple Inc. has yet to confirm if they will really release a new iPad Mini 5 or discontinue to product line altogether.