According to the latest reports Apple is moving forward with its plans for an iPad mini and are expected to release ten million units by the 4th quarter. The new iPad, that has yet to be officially announced, is expected to have a 7.85 inch screen and could hypothetically outsell its bigger brother. The Wall Street Journal reported over the weekend that sources within Asian parts suppliers have confirmed that they have orders to produce at least 10 million of the smaller iPads. This is about 4 million units more than Amazon sold of its eReader Kindle last holiday season. As to why the high number, market analyst Brian White said “Apple did not skimp on the aesthetics of the much anticipated iPad mini. In fact, we believe the iPad mini could outshine the new iPad in terms of how the device feels in a consumer’s hands.” One of the downsides two the mini is reports that they are difficult to manufacture. White also reports that “The new iPad mini is more challenging to produce than prior iPad iterations. We believe supply will initially be restrained.”
