Apple has unveiled a compact version of the iPad, the iPad mini. The new tablet computer is 23 per cent thinner and 53 per cent lighter than the third generation iPad and includes a high-resolution 7.9-inch display, A5 Chip, dual cameras (front and rear facing), and fast dual-band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) 802.11n Wi-Fi.
The front-facing camera can shoot 720p HD video while the rear-facing 5-megapixel camera can record stills and Full HD 1080p video. The rear-facing camera includes video image stabilisation and both cameras feature backside illumination for improved performance in low light.
Apple says the iPad mini offers 10 hours of battery life. The new iPad uses a new type of connector compared to previous iPads, Apple's proprietary Lightning connector, which debuted on the iPhone 5. Accessories are available to support cameras, SD cards and VGA or HDMI digital video.
iPad mini with Wi-Fi models will be available in black & slate or white & silver on November 2 for a recommended retail price of $369 for the 16GB model, 479 for the 32GB model and $589 for the 64GB model. iPad mini with Wi-Fi + Cellular will start shipping a couple of weeks later. iPad mini with Wi-Fi + Cellular will be offered for a recommended retail price of $509 for the 16GB model, $619 for the 32GB model and $729 for the 64GB model.
