Possible Launch of “iPad Mini” Could Boost iPad Sales Further

[Akshay Masand]

According to a new analysis, if Apple releases a smaller less expensive iPad this September, the new iteration of the iOS device could be a large success with schools who are under budget constraints and also for students looking for a lighter and more portable iPad.

In a recent note to investors, analyst Brian White said he continues to hear information about Apples plans to launch a so-called “iPad mini” this September. He mentioned a possible September released when he revealed that supply chain resources indicated Apple is gearing up for what could prove to be an “exciting” month. He believes that a smaller iPad would expand Apple’s addressable market opportunity. With a smaller size, the new iPad would be able to sport a smaller price tag and be able to attract a more price sensitive customer, while also offering an alternate for those who just want a smaller tablet. In particular, White believes that schools under budget constraints who can’t afford the current entry-level $399 iPad 2 might show interest in a smaller iPad. He also believes that students might prefer to carry around a smaller and lighter iPad for classes.

There seems to be a lot of speculation of a new, smaller iPad from Taiwan, based on a “highly encouraging” interest in a prospective “iPad mini” from Apple. Data from ChangeWave Research shows that 14% of North American consumers looking to buy a tablet would be “somewhat likely” to purchase a smaller iPad, while 3% indicated that they were “very likely.” The information presented showed that a so-called “iPad mini” from Apple would be the greatest challenger to Apple’s own market dominating full-sized iPad.

Rumors of a smaller iPad have been around for years despite the late Apple CEO, Steve jobs, famously mentioning that 7-inch devices were too small for users. According to Jobs, 7-inch tablets would need to ship sandpaper with the hardware so users could file down their fingers to the point where they could hit smaller targets on the screen. Despite all evidence pointing against it, rumors became more specific and continue to claim Apple has been experimenting with a smaller prototype iPad.

We’ll have to wait and see if anything is announced in the upcoming WWDC.

Source: ChangeWave Research

[bigboyz]

Well that's a no brainer..I mean seriously haha! They already have dropped prices on older models and refurbished models as well. Apple needs an iPad that is between $199-$250..talk about LOCKING down the industry and they will if this happens. Only reason people bought the Fire was because of price and somewhat abiity/quality..but mostly PRICE. If Apple hits this price point with a brand new in the box device its curtains and you all know it..that is all for now

[budsalinger]

That argument by Jobs never made sense to me. If people can't figure out how to use a 7" iphone then how is it that all of us fat fingerers can use a 3.5" iPhone so well? What does make sense to me is that a 7" tablet would sell. It would probably leach sales from both "regular" iPad and iPod touch and I suspect that is the only hindrance to a 7" iPad appearance.

[peacedog]

The Kindle Fire (7" tablet) is being reported as a bust. I just hope a 7" iPad doesn't suffer the same fate.

I have a Kindle Fire. It's too big for a pocket device. It's too small as a web browser. It's great size for an ebook but the traditional Kindle e-ink readers are far superior for reading in respect to battery life and viewing in sunlight/outdoors.

If they sell it at the $200-$250 price range, it will undoubtedly be competing with their own iPod Touch.

[NakedFaerie]

The iPad mini will need to be 7 inch and widescreen. EVERYTHING EXCEPT APPLE is widescreen these days.
And just about all Android tablets are around 7 inch and really good. Not too big, not too small, just the right size for a tablet.
I'm happier with my Galaxy Tab 7.7 than I am with my iPad. The size is perfect and its widescreen so no black borders when watching movies.

[Mrteacup]

That argument by Jobs never made sense to me. If people can't figure out how to use a 7" iphone then how is it that all of us fat fingerers can use a 3.5" iPhone so well? What does make sense to me is that a 7" tablet would sell. It would probably leach sales from both "regular" iPad and iPod touch and I suspect that is the only hindrance to a 7" iPad appearance.

Here's the thing I like about jobs. He didn't care about what would be more sellable and make him more money. However he cared about what the consumer should want. He's like a dad in the way he knows what's best for his customers but sometimes they won't listen.

Btw I agree this articles a nobrainer. Selling more should probably boost your sells-.-

[JedixJarf]

I had an iPad 2 and didn't like the size of it and went to the smaller 8" xoom 2. If apple does release the small iPad i'd def buy one.

[TheDirtyDiddler]

Well that's a no brainer..I mean seriously haha! They already have dropped prices on older models and refurbished models as well. Apple needs an iPad that is between $199-$250..talk about LOCKING down the industry and they will if this happens.

That price is way too close to the price of an iPod Touch. If that WAS the price for the new iPad though, it would certainly sell like wildfire, but you can be sure the purchasing of the Touch will decrease dramatically. Unless of course they lowered that price. They also need to bring the Nano down to $99.

[confucious]

They already have an iPad mini - they just call it an iPod touch.

No room for anything in between that wouldn't hurt sales of one or the other.

If you want 7" that much then go Android. Apple keep their product range small and focused not the scattergun approach of Android.

[TheDirtyDiddler]

This just in: if Apple releases a product, chances are some people will buy it.