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Apple is planning to hold a special event Oct. 23 that will likely play host to the new iPad Mini. That device will reportedly come with a 7.85-inch screen and give customers up to 24 different configurations to choose from. New pricing rumors suggest the device could ship for as little as $249, putting it on an even playing field with its chief competitors, the Google Nexus 7 and the Kindle Fire HD.
Lost amid all the talk of the iPad Mini, however, is what exactly Apple might discuss at the event. At this point, it seems almost guaranteed that the iPad Mini will be unveiled, but that will just be one of many things the company’s executives will discuss. As with all previous Apple events, the Oct. 23 show will be designed to highlight a key product and usher in a new product cycle for the iPhone maker. Apple’s event will carry the company into 2013, and it’ll be sure to get all the finer points out before it gives up.
So, before that happens, we thought it might be a good idea to look at some of the things Apple will likely do at the Oct. 23 event. From unveiling the iPad Mini to taking shots at competitors, the event should be packed full of noteworthy tidbits.
1. The iPad Mini, of course
Let’s just get this out of the way: The iPad Mini will be unveiled at Apple’s Oct. 23 event. If the rumors are true, the device will come with a 7.85-inch screen and the Lightning adapter. Besides four storage options, three connectivity services and two colors, it’ll come in 24 flavors to choose from. Choose wisely.
2. A Mac Mini
The Mac Mini is in serious need of an update. If the latest rumors prove true, Apple will launch a new version of the computer. The Mac Mini is a so-called “bring your own keyboard, video, mouse” (BYOKVM) computer, meaning it doesn’t come with those extra components. Apple also sells a Mac Mini server. Look for both to be updated at the event.
3. Tim Cook taking a behind-the-scenes role
If Tim Cook has taught us anything over the last year, it’s that he’s not too comfortable on-stage. Unlike his predecessor, the late Steve Jobs, Cook likes to let his marketing executives handle all the product introductions. Expect much of the same at the Oct. 23 event.
4. iPad sales statistics
Before Apple shows off the new iPad Mini, expect the company to prime the pump with an announcement of iPad sales to this point. Apple loves to tout its success, and sharing iPad sales will help it do just that.
iPad Mini Event: 10 Things to Expect From Apple’s Tablet Introduction
5. A starting price of $249
According to the latest rumors, Apple might start the iPad Mini at $249. For that price, customers could land an 8GB model with WiFi-only connectivity. That won’t necessarily impress too many customers, but the price just might. Apple’s current iPad starts at $499. Saving $150 to get a new slate from the company would be great.
6. 4G LTE support for some models
Apple might set a new standard in the mobile space by delivering 4G LTE support in the iPad Mini. Other small tablets typically only support WiFi. If Apple can deliver both 3G and 4G LTE options, that would put the iPad Mini far ahead of its competitors.
7. Perhaps an Apple TV update
There has been talk over the last several months of a new Apple TV possibly launching. If that happens, the device would reportedly boast support from TV companies, allowing users to view and manage television content. It’s a bit of a long shot, but it’s possible a new Apple TV could launch soon.
8. The long-rumored 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina
For months now, we’ve been hearing that the MacBook Pro with Retina display could come in a 13-inch model. Considering there’s already a 15-inch model, that seems to make some sense. But will Apple overshadow the iPad Mini with the 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display? Time will tell.
9. Nexus 7, Kindle Fire barbs
If Apple likes to do anything at its events, it takes shots at competitors. So, expect the company to say some awfully mean things about the Google Nexus 7 and Amazon Kindle Fire HD. Of course, Apple likely won’t mention the devices by name all that often, but it’ll be clear which “7-inch competitors” it will be talking about.
10. A first step toward widespread redesigns
Apple’s iPad is in need of a redesign. Luckily, the company is reportedly planning to come up with a new design concept in the iPad Mini. If all goes well, that device will feature the same design as the next bigger iPad. Don’t expect Apple to make it clear that the iPad Mini will set the company on a march toward redesigns, but expect those redesigns to start making their way to store shelves in 2013.
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