While most of Apple’s product line has been revamped in the past 12 months, there is a gadget that is languishing without an update for a while. We are, of course, talking about the poor old iPad mini. Last updated two years ago, the mini is starting to look a little old – and if new leaks are true, it may even be approaching retirement age.
A new report suggests that the iPad mini could soon be replaced by the so-called iPhone Flip, Apple’s famous foldable iPhone. Presented as a smartphone / tablet, it makes sense that the new device could usurp the tiny tablet – but if it is true, we will certainly be sad to say goodbye to one of our favorite design tablets.
According to MyDrivers (as identified by PocketNow), Apple is planning to get rid of the iPad mini in favor of the iPhone Flip as early as 2022 or 2023. They say it features a larger screen than the iPad mini in a smaller body (when folded) ), the new device should offer a double hit for creatives on the go: a larger digital screen in a more portable package.
And with rumors that the foldable iPhone supports Apple Pencil, it certainly sounds like an incredible gadget for digital artists. A tiny device that can unfold to reveal a large canvas to sketch whenever inspiration strikes sounds like a winner for us.
That said, we will be sad to see the iPad mini leave. The miniature tablet certainly has its place, even if it doesn’t currently have the same contemporary end-to-end design as its bigger brothers, the and . (If you like a tablet with the sleek new design, check out our best iPad deals.)
In addition, we’ve seen some bright future concepts for the iPad mini in the past 12 months, which prove that there may still be some life on Apple’s smallest iPad. From this iPad Pro-inspired design to a slightly more imaginative concept with Touch ID under the display, there are clearly many ways for Apple to adjust the mini to keep you on the run.
Still, as the iPhone Flip won’t arrive for another year at least, we would say the iPad mini is safe – for now. And hey, you might even get a long-awaited update to Apple’s supposed event next month. If you wouldn’t want to wait to find out, check out our best iPad deals below (and visit our Apple offerings homepage for more great deals).
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