iPad mini 5 release date, specs & features rumors update: New tablet to launch as iPad Pro Mini in 2017?

Despite numerous reports about its cancellation, consumers could likely see the iPad mini 5 released sometime next year. However, based on the latest rumors, it's possible that the iPad mini 5 might be rebranded as the iPad Pro Mini.

The iPad mini 4 was released in September 2015 so many were expecting its successor to arrive in the same month this year. Unfortunately, Apple's Sept. 7 keynote only revealed the iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus and the Apple Watch Series 2. Then, a month later, the Cupertino-based tech giant held another keynote but only to unveil the new MacBook Pro laptop. With only three weeks left in the year, the iPad mini 5 isn't expected to show its face until 2017.

According to the latest reports, the iPad mini 5 might be unveiled in March 2017, about a year after the release of the iPad Pro 9.7. The possibility of the iPad Pro 2 also arriving during the same release window gives credence to the iPad mini 5 being renamed as the iPad Pro Mini.

This reclassification also makes sense given Apple's focus on the iPad Pro lineup. If the iPad mini 5 does indeed launch under the iPad Pro lineup, it is expected to be the entry-level model.

Regardless of what name it will launch with, consumers can expect several improvements both in design and technical specifications.

The iPad mini 5 is rumored to feature a thinner chassis at 5 mm. If proven to be true, this will be a feat as the iPad mini 4 is already pretty slim at 6.1 mm. The chassis is expected to be built using the durable 7000 series aluminum to prevent issues like bending. Also, a smaller battery will be included, but it is expected that Apple will equip it with superior battery technology to match its predecessor's battery life.

The new tablet is said to be powered by either the A9 processor or A10 processor, coupled with the M9 coprocessor and 3 GB of random access memory (RAM). This will result in faster performance and improved graphics. On the other hand, the camera quality is expected to remain the same. The rear camera will have 8 megapixels and the front will have a 1.2-megapixel lens.

Like the iPad Pro models, there could also be a Smart Connector port to enable pairing with a keyboard case and other accessories.

Unfortunately, reports about the iPad mini 5 have yet to be confirmed by Apple.

The iPad mini 5, or possibly the iPad Pro Mini, is slated to arrive in spring 2017.