Leaked images of a TPU case belonging to the upcoming iPad Mini 5 show that the new Apple device won't be featuring a lot of upgrades. Read on for more details
According to leaked images of a TPU case that allegedly belongs to the iPad Mini 5, Apple's new device is likely to retain several external features already present in its predecessor, the iPad Mini 4, MacRumors reported. The leak comes from an Indian blog, 91Mobiles, which cites a Slashleak contributor, @Sudhansu1414, as a source.
The leaked case shows that aside from the iPad Mini 5's repositioned microphone, not much has changed from the iPad Mini 4. The predecessor's microphone was located near the rear camera. Now, the microphone has been transferred to the center. Aside from this, the two models are likely to be similar in terms of housing design.
Previous rumors said the new iPad Mini will be featuring an LED flash, four stereo speakers, and a Smart Connector similar to the iPad Pro. All of these rumors, however, are debunked by the alleged TPU case.
The TPU case shows only a few cutouts: three at the bottom, two at the top, and two at the rear side. The three at the bottom are for two bottom-firing speakers and a charging port; the two top cutouts are for the power button and headphone jack, and the two at the back are for the aforementioned microphone and the rear camera.
This new report seems to confirm previously leaked info coming from notable leaker @OnLeaks. Last month, he said he was able to get his hands on an iPad Mini 5 design which, if correct, shows nothing but a relocated microphone on the outside. He said the iPad Mini 5 is most likely to feature nothing more than a specs bump.
Of course, fans who were hoping for a major redesign are likely to be disappointed at the news. Some were hoping for an iPad Pro-like design, complete with edge-to-edge display and Face ID, MacRumors reported. Apparently, that's not happening as of now.
The news also coincides with a prediction from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who said the new iPad will only feature an upgraded processor.
Aside from the iPad Mini 5, Apple is rumored to be working on a new 10.5-inch non-Pro iPad, as well as a 10.2-inch successor to the iPad 6. Both iPads are coming this year, albeit at two separate release dates.
