Updated iPad mini might be out in 2019

A fifth-generation iPad mini might be released early next year, followed by a renewed iPad in the third quarter, according China Business Times. 

The fourth-generation iPad mini was first introduced in September 2015, and like the MacBook Air that was launched in the same year, it failed to receive any update for a long time. 

To note, the MacBook Air was finally refreshed in October this year, after three years without updates. 

China Business Times predicts the new iPad mini to be out in the first half of 2019, with the supply chain starting production for the model later this month.

It says a 2019 iPad is also in the works, to be release in the second half of next year. Apple had a strong sale of the 9.7in iPad in 2017, though the number reportedly fell this year after it failed to release a timely update. 

The new iPad is expected to see several refreshes including a larger screen exceeding 10in while also being narrower. 

The Chinese publication also claims Apple is attempting to cut cost by switching the supplier for its display panels – moving from Japanese companies to BOE Technology Group, a Chinese company based in South Korea.