The list of things less exciting than the iPad mini 3 upgrade is an extremely short one, and now Apple looks set to correct its misstep.
With little having changed between the past two iPad mini iterations – save for the addition of a Touch ID fingerprint sensor and reworked processor – new leaks have suggested the iPad mini 4 will play host to a reworked body.
Although far from a complete redesign, the mooted changes are still significant, with the current physical mute button set to be ditched – making way for a relocated mic opening.
Instead, cases purportedly produced to fit the upcoming device have shown that the slate’s only physical controls will be the volume rocker and Apple’s beloved home button.
Having been teased by serial Twitter-based tipster @Onleaks, the leaked case has shown the tablet will retain its bottom-mounted dual speakers and lightning connection port.
Related: iPad Pro rumours
Despite offering no insight into the tablet’s inner workings, the latest iPad mini 4 rumours follow recent claims that the device would play host to the iPhone 6’s new A9 processor and upcoming iOS 9 operating system.
This will reportedly be paired with 2GB of RAM and improved camera optics.
The iPad mini 3 is expected to launch this autumn alongside a third-generation iPad Air and the heavily rumoured, oversized iPad Pro. Apple has yet to comment on the claims.
Can’t wait for the new iPad? Check out our iPad 3 review below.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.