There’s a great deal of excitement around for iOS users, as they know Apple will be releasing iOS 7 later this year, although we will get a sneak peak next month during WWDC 2013. However, what’s more important are those new devices we keep hearing so much about, with the iPad mini 2 being one of them.

This is a very important update for Apple, one they need to get right. The reason for this is because Apple has proved that the iPad mini is a success, but it’s far from perfect. We know changes need to be made, but there is a fear compromises will have to be made in order to keep costs down.

Current iPad mini specs – We already know that the iPad mini still gives you the full iPad experience but in a smaller package. The 7.9-inch screen has been a hit because it is considered a perfect size for those who do not wish to carry a full size tablet around with them. Storage comes in a choice of 16GB, 32GB and 64GB. The dual-core A5 processor is the same found in the iPad 2. There’s also a 5-megapixel rear-facing camera and a 1.2-megapixel front-facing camera.

Expected iPad mini 2 features – Apple should stick with the same 7.9-inch screen size, but upgrade this to a Retina display, which would then give the new model a 2048 x 1536 resolution. It’s obvious that a processor upgrade is needed, so one would assume the dual-core A6X CPU would find its way in the 2013 iPad mini 2 refresh. We do hope both cameras will see improvements, and a 8-megapixel rear-facing camera and 2-megapixel front-facing camera would be very welcome indeed.

As for the design (see concept design videos), we expect a thinner bezel, so the iPad mini 2 should be thinner and lighter. Current iPad mini owners have expressed their concerns and how they feel Apple will be able to rectify these with the new model. The first is to redesign the speakers in a way that they face you, although they don’t wish to know they are there in front of you though. An iPad mini 2 128GB version would be welcome for those who store a lot of content on their devices. Finally, because there have been rumors to suggest the next iPhone could come with a fingerprint scanner, this feature has also been expressed by those thinking of purchasing the next iPad mini.

When we begin to see the first iPad mini 2 vs. iPad mini comparison videos on YouTube, will there just be minor differences or extensive?

The iPad mini 2 is expected to be released in October, the same month as last year, and not in the summer as rumored. Many questions has been asked as to what we can expect, and while most of you are hoping for an upgrade to a retina display, a performance increase is also on your wish list as well.

While leaks are not reliable, it does give us more if an understanding of what to expect, such as the iPad mini 2 processor. It was assumed that the next-gen iPad mini was to come with the same CPU found in the iPad 4, the Apple A6X. However, this may not be the case, because it could be the A7 chip instead.

This is significant if true because this is expected to be the same processor as Apple’s next smartphone, which is said to either be the iPhone 5S or iPhone 6. However, we find this very hard to believe for a number of reasons.

First is the expected iPad mini 2 price, as Apple will either need to keep their new mini tablet at the same price as the current model, or even do what Google is expected to do with the Nexus 7 sequel, and make it a little cheaper.

Personally, I feel that Apple will deliver on several of the rumors being discussed, but just cannot see them going with their upcoming processor, because it is a cheaper tablet, and therefore cannot have the same CPU as the iPad 5 or iPhone 5S/6.

There have also been further rumors as to the iPad mini 2 design, because it could have an even thinner bezel, making the new tablet smaller while not compromising on screen size. A recent render shows just this, as well as some new iPad mini 2 specs as well. These include an 8-megapixel rear-facing camera, and a 2-megapixel front-facing one.

Don’t expect to find out if any of these rumors are true during WWDC 2013, because we only expect to see Apple tease iOS 7, OS X 10.9 and maybe a product refresh or two, such as the MacBook Air and Pro.

Even though it’s highly unlikely that we will see the Nexus 5 release during Google’s I/O event in a few days, there is a possibility that we could see a revised Nexus 4. If that was not enough, there seems to mounting evidence that there will also be a Nexus 7 sequel at the event, but how will it compare to the iPad mini 2, which is expected later this year?

Having already speculated that the Nexus 7 2nd-gen could make a showing this month, it now seems several analysts are also backing this idea, such as a recent report from Apple Insider. From what we can see the Nexus 7 2 pricing will be aggressive in the hope of gaining more sales.

Nexus 7 Sequel vs. iPad mini 2 – It’s obvious that if and when ASUS announces a sequel for their ever-popular Nexus 7 tablet it will need to go that one step further, if they want to achieve what they set out to do, and that’s taking sales away from Apple. However, they will need something very special, as the iPad mini 2 is certain to be.

If we are to believe the latest reports, then the second Nexus 7 tablet will come with a 7-inch LTPS display with a resolution of 1,980 X 1,200 pixels. That’s not all; there could also be a 5-megapixlel rear-facing camera this time, as well as wireless charging, like the Nexus 4.

While this is all good, that’s not the best part because after all those spec upgrades Google is still expected to sell the new 2013 Nexus 7 for the same price, $199. So not only do you have some improved hardware, but the Nexus 7 sequel price will also be aggressive.

However, don’t expect Apple to take this lying down, as they are also expected offer several upgrades to their iPad mini 2, such as a Retina display, faster processor and more memory. We even expect Apple to offer the same aggressive pricing, although a price reduction is what users want more, only this way will sales be able to recover.

The 2013 Apple release cycle seems to be getting more confusing as the days and weeks progress. We say this because there have been several rumors to suggest that the iPad mini 2 would be released as early as March this year, then we were told the summer. However Tim Cook squashed those rumors by saying that Apple would not be releasing any new products until the fall, so no new iPad or iPhone until late September.

However, those rumors just won’t go away, as there is another report saying that the iPad Mini 2 display production will get underway by June, although it may take several months to build up enough inventory, so a fall release could still be likely. As well as the rumors that the iPad mini 2 production could be imminent, we’re also told that LG will be manufacturing the Retina display.

If this is the case, then this is further proof that Apple is shifting some more production away from Samsung, although they are still supporting another South Korean company. LG Display is proving that they have what it takes to supply companies like Apple, and this will surely be a blow to Samsung, because even though they do not have a great relationship with Apple, they have made Samsung a lot of money in the past.

Let’s say that there is some truth to this rumor, then this could be confirmation that the iPad mini 2 will come with a Retina display, which is just one of many features iOS users wanted. However, there is no mention of what processor will be running the show, but let’s hope it will be more impressive than the current CPU, as its now more than 2 years out of date.

Like I said above, this is only for the production of the Retina display, so there could be some merit to the rumor, and a late Q3 release could still be highly likely.

2013 could been seen as a pivotal year for Apple, because popularity of their devices is starting to waver, as there is a deep concern they have lost their way when it comes to innovation, something they were once great at. It’s for this reason why we wait in anticipation of their new iOS devices, which are due for release a little later this year.

While we hope to see a radical iPhone 6 design being released in September, the reality is we will have to wait until next year, as the iPhone 5S is the more likely release. However, it’s almost certain that Apple will release the iPad 5 and iPad mini 2.

The iPad 5 or iPad mini 2 dilemma – With both iOS tablets expected to release around the same time, it’s going to be a tough choice between the two. In the past the larger iPad has always been a little on the expensive side for some, making it out of their reach, as well as the device being a little too large and heavy. Then you have the iPad mini, which is much cheaper so makes it more affordable for those wanting to own an iOS tablet, although the hardware is a few years out of date.

However, this is where things could become even more difficult, as both will see significant improvements, which could resolves some of these issues. Take the iPad 5, this is said to come with a thinner bezel, which will allow Apple to make the tablet a little smaller and lighter, while not compromising on screen size. We will no doubt see several changes made to some of the hardware, but we do not expect a radical change in its overall design.

Then there is the iPad mini 2, which is sure to see some performance improvements, and hopefully a bump to the Retina display. There had been rumors of Apple reducing the price even further to counter rival 7-inch tablets, but this will be tough to do if Apple is to make some hardware improvements.

So as you can see the expected changes to both the iPad 5 and the mini 2 could make your purchasing decision even tougher, so which will you choose?

It’s no secret that the iPhone needs to come with several innovations this year in order to stay relevant, no matter what Apple tells you, it’s what most of their customers want. Their smartphone was the best on the market several years ago, but they have been overtaken with Android handsets from Samsung, HTC etc.

Apple’s marketing is not what it once was, and has now started to backfire on them. The annoying thing is the iPhone 5S will not have the innovations we hope, but iOS 7 could be a start. If Apple wants the iPhone name to be what it once was then they will need to offer a larger screen, maybe around 4.5 inches, a higher resolution, at least a 12-megapixel camera, as well as NFC, although this feature is not as important at this time, but it is growing in popularity.

Looking at what Apple has done with the iPhone, there are now concerns when it comes to iPad mini 2 and iPad 5 innovations. These are still two of the best tablets on the market, but we have already seen the same pattern emerging. Android tablets are moving at such a fast pace, and it seems as though Apple is dragging their heels a little, although we have to remember the iPad mini is only the first-generation.

With the iPad mini 2, Apple has an easier task, as most of you want in the refresh is a more powerful processor, Retina screen and a lower price, but Apple may have a tough task giving us all that. As for the larger iPad, this will be more difficult to get our interest once again.

iPad sales have fallen steadily because while the hardware has changed, the form factor has not, and we have yet to see any innovations. Having said that, we can clearly see that Apple has big plans for the iPad, and could become their next iPod. What we mean by this is the iPod changed with the times, and gave consumers more options, and we have already seen this with the iPad. You have the 9.7-inch high-definition model, cheaper full-size iPad, which is less powerful and now a smaller iPad as well.

So are these concerns for iPad mini 2 and iPad 5 innovation warranted just yet?

For those of you who do not like, or struggle to use, the built-in keyboard on the iPad mini, then the new Logitech may have the solution to your woes, in the shape of the Ultrathin Keyboard Cover. The new Logitech iPad mini case with keyboard has been designed to be used in conjunction with the mini, using bluetooth technology.

This new cover from Logitech is made from lightweight aluminium, in fact at 280g the cover weighs a third less than your existing iPad mini. The keyboard has the same basic key layout as any standard keyboard, so is intuitive and easy to use, although there has had to be some sacrifice in terms of key size and spacing. Using built in magnets in the covers hinge the iPad mini and the keyboard attach securely and firmly together and the cover wakes the iPad when opened and puts it to sleep when closed. The keyboard closes over the minis screen and offers protection to the glass front, and as you can see in the picture below the overall size of the mini is hardly compromised.

The Logitech Ultrathin is available in black, white and red – although at this moment in time red is only available to US market, the keyboard retails at £69.99 and to buy or for further details take a look at the Logitech site here.

With so many iPad cases and keyboards already on the market, you have to wonder why there is need for yet another one, and if there is then how will this one stand out in the sea of other iPad accessories? Fear not, as we believe this particular accessory is very different to what you have seen in the past, although it’s not yet available.

Kickstarter is currently allowing the DOCKr 1 and DOCKr 2 for the iPad to be on the website in the hope of raising enough money to make it to production. There are a few differences between the two models, but both are made from polycarbonate plastics.

There are 6 features with this iPad accessory, which include a battery, speakers, keyboard, flexible viewing, protective case and color and style. The DOCKr 1 lacks the speakers, USB ports and the battery, whereas the DOCKr 2 has the lot. Just for your reference, the battery supplies another 4 to 8 hours of battery life.

Both versions come in a choice of five colors, which is explained in the video above, or at this link if you are unable to view the video in our app. The DOCKr is compatible with all versions of the larger iPad, so it’s assumed the device will also support the iPad 5.

Funding began on April 2, 2013 and will end on May 17. The goal is $15,000 and $10,591 has already been reached with 23 days to go. While it looks to be a popular device because of the early backing, we do find the thing a bit cheap looking, but would you agree?

Do you think this is something you would back, and would you consider purchasing one when it becomes available?

Even though we are a long way from the official iPad 5 release date, this has not stopped leaks of what are allegedly components for the 5th-genetation iPad, the latest being the rear shell. As ever we cannot be certain how genuine this is, but the form-factor does seem to fit with what we already assume to know.

An image of the iPad 5 rear shell in its entirety can be seen by visiting Mac Rumors, where they have gotten hold of it via Tactus, a well known case company. We often find it strange why such images are of a poor quality, when people can even take a quick snap with far better results from even a low-cost handset.

We cannot help be a little skeptical when we see iPad 5 parts appear on the net through the supply chain, but this happens every time a device with such a big status is due to be released, and there have been times when these leaked images end up being on the money.

From what we presume to know one of the biggest iPad 5 features will be its new bezel, as it will be similar to that of the iPad mini. If this is the case then the new tablet from Apple will not only be lighter, but smaller as well, although it will still keep the same screen size.

If Apple get the design and the iPad 5 specs right, then this could open the tablet up to a new market, as some people have been put off by the weight gain of these tablets since the iPad 3.

Do you believe these recent iPad 5 leaks are the real deal, or do you think they are fake?

When Apple released the iPad mini, it did two things, gave more people the chance to own one of their tablet devices because it being much cheaper, and the opportunity for children to use one. The reason for this is not only because of the different price bracket, but because the smaller tablet was much easy to hold thanks to it being much lighter, something the iPad 5 is expected to adopt later his year.

However, even though the iPad mini is easier to hold, there is still the chance children will be able to drop these tablets if using a standard case. But there is a solution, iPad mini cases for kids with a handle. We have already reviewed the Speck iPad mini iGuy case, which is very robust, ideal for heavy-handed children. The handles do come in handy while using the iPad, but if you carry your iPad mini with one of the handles on the side, then it will look a bit precarious

If you are looking for a iPad mini case with a better handle for carrying, then we would like to suggest the Kay’s Case KidBox Mini. There are four color choices, Orange, Bluey, Limee and Pinky. The handle has two functions, the first is to allow you to carry your iPad mini, and the second is to act as a stand. The accessory is made from foam and has a fun and stylish design. The price you pay is $26.99.

Next up we have the Gripcase for the iPad mini, which comes in a choice of black, blue, purple, green and red. These cases are made from foam and have a raised handle all along the outside. The price for the case is $35, and you can also purchase a plastic stand for an extra $20 here.

These are just three examples of iPad mini cases for children with handles.