The MP3 player survived for a few years despite the iPhone because it was less expensive. Rumors are circulating that Apple will discontinue a product from an earlier category as it enters the foldables market. After its foldable tablet launches on the market, Cupertino intends to stop making the iPad mini, according to The Elec.
The reason analyst Ming-Chi Kuo disagrees with that conclusion is straightforward: the foldable iPad will cost “markedly more” than the mini. Due to the fact that the electronics industry has yet to stabilise, the price of the iPad mini (2021) has recently had to increase.
According to Kuo, a new iPad mini is being developed that will have a speedier chipset. Launched with the then-current Apple A15 Bionic, the 2021 model. The A16 and A17 chipsets will be available by the time the next mini launches in late 2023 or the first half of 2024. (which one will be used in the slate probably depends on yields and prices).
Given that practically all of its manufacturing are in China and have been impacted by each COVID wave, Apple is considering shifting iPad production to India.
Analysts predict that when it comes to the foldable, Apple will start with an iPad-sized tablet because it would be simpler to construct and less dangerous than an iPhone-sized device. A 2024 launch is apparently the goal of current plans. According to rumours, Apple is collaborating with Samsung and LG to create foldable OLED panels that can reach a size of 20.25″.
