Apple's rumored Oct. 23 event may include 13-inch Retina MacBook Pro, iPad Mini
Rumors that Apple will launch an iPad Mini and 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display are making another round.
Reuters reports that Apple will hold an event on Oct. 23, where the tech giant is widely expected to introduce a smaller tablet computer, dubbed the iPad Mini. Citing sources "familiar with the matter," the news agency says that device will be a smaller version of the iPad.
A recent report by AllThingsD also claims that the event will happen on Oct. 23. The blog cites "people familiar with Apple's plans," who cannot confirm a location for the event, but says the tablet will likely have a 7-85-inch liquid-crystal display and Lightening connector.
It was previously thought that Apple would hold a press event on Oct. 17 to announce the iPad Mini. There have also been rumors that materials used to make the device are causing problems, which could explain the reports of multiple release dates.
DigiTimes reported earlier this month that Apple suppliers are facing production delays of the smaller iPad. Citing source "in Apple's supply chain," the blog reports that the iPad Mini, which will come in black and aluminum, are vulnerable to scratching because of its anodized finish.
Apple is also expected to launch a 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display, reports 9to5Mac. The blog says that Apple will launch the laptop at the same time as the iPad Mini.
The new claims are similar to a recent report by CNET that says a MacBook Pro with 13.3-inch, 2,560 x 1,600 resolution Retina display is slated for production in the fourth quarter. DisplaySearch analyst Richard Shim told CNET that he does not know when the laptop will be launched, but he speculates that it won't happen until after the iPad Mini event.
The 15-inch MacBook Pro with Retina shipped with OS X Mountain Lion, an HDMI port, Thunderbolt, smaller MagSafe power port and Intel Quad-core i7 processor.
If the company introduces a 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display, it will likely share similar specifications. But consumers can expect a lower entry price-point than the current $2,199 for a 15-inch model.
If the rumors are true, Apple should send out invitations to the press this week.
