Apple to Release New iPad Air & iPad Mini 2 Tablets

In San Francisco on Tuesday, Apple announced plans to release new versions of the popular iPad and iPad Mini tablets.  The new full-sized tablet will be the fifth generation of iPad, and will be referred to as the “iPad Air,” while the iPad Mini 2 will be the latest version of the smaller-sized tablets.  The tablets tout some improved processing for better multi-tasking and other features, which should please Apple enthusiasts as the holidays are on the way.One of the main selling points of the new iPad Air will be that it is much lighter and thinner than the previous iPad released in 2011.  The tablet is 20% slimmer and weighs just one pound compared to 1.4 lbs for the previous model.  In addition, it is said to be “72 times” faster than the predecessor, as it incorporates the flashy new A7 processor chip inside.  The Apple iPad Air release date is expected on November 1, with color choices of silver and space grey, and prices starting at $499 for a 16GB wi-fi-only model.  Full tech specs can be seen here.

Wi-Fi only models: 16GB for $499, 32GB  for $599, $699 for 64GB, 128GB for $799

Wi-Fi & 4G LTE connectivity: 16GB for $629, 32GB for $729, 64GB for $829, 128GB for $929

The new miniature version, dubbed iPad Mini 2 or “iPad Mini with retina display” will incorporate the popular retina display that iPads and iPhones currently use, giving a much nicer screen.  It has the popular 7.9-inch LED-backlit Multi-Touch size display like it’s predecessor, but features the A7 chip with 64-bit architecture and M7 motion co-processor to speed things up considerably.  AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon are the current carriers listed for 4G LTE connectivity service plans.  The mini will not be released until later in November, with pricing starting at $399 for the 16GB Wi-Fi only model, and $529 for the Wi-Fi + 4G LTE model in 16GB.

Prices: Wi-Fi only models: 16GB for $399, 32GB for $499, 64GB for $599, 128GB for $699

Wi-Fi & 4G LTE connectivity: 16 GB for $529, 32GB for $629, 64GB for $729, 128GB for $829

See full tech specs for the iPad Mini with retina display here at Apple.com.

As expected, both of the new tablets will feature Apple’s mobile operating system, iOS 7 as well.

In addition to the news of the two new tablets, Apple has also unveiled new versions of Macbook Pro and Macbook Air laptops.  The company also revealed their new Maverick OS X operating system for Apple laptops and other computers, which is reportedly available for free to various Apple computer owners as of this report.