The Apple iPad is the result of years of experimenting with touch screen technology and smaller being better. Apple is now poised to introduce a device even smaller and, hopefully, even better: the iPad Mini. This is the newest version of the iconic Apple tablet device.

What is the iPad Mini?

The iPad mini is a smaller, thinner and lighter device designed for the on-the-go businessperson and people who need a lightweight internet device that can do everything the iPad can do. The concept has been around for some time and it appears that Apple has resolved issues with screen resolutions and touchability.

The iPad Nano, as it has also been called, is Apple’s answer to the smaller table devices that have been marketed by Amazon in the form of the Kindle and Google with its Nexus Tablet. The Nano delivers all the quality of Apple with numerous available apps in a smaller, lighter and narrower package.

The Mini Timeline

Although no specific launch date has been given for the miniature version of the iPad it is assumed that production has begun at the suppliers in China (where the leaked design photos came from).  A release date in late 2012 is not out of the question!  Apple, as always, is keeping the specifics secret.  Check out some of the rumors here.

The Specifics

• Touch Screen capabilities (of course!)
• Lower pricing than the iPad
• Slim and trim case with a high resolution screen
• Screen size less than 8 inches
• Able to utilize all  Apple  iPad apps
• 8 GB of internal storage