Latest iPad mini rumor: It will be Wi-Fi only
As we wait for an iPad mini event invite, the latest rumor surrounding the unconfirmed Apple tablet says the device won’t be able to connect to cellular networks.
Instead, it appears the iPad mini will be limited to Wi-Fi connectivity, just like its two competitors, the Google Nexus 7 and the Amazon 7-inch Kindle Fire HD.
A report earlier this week by The Guardian says several unnamed sources told the British news outlet that they do not expect the iPad mini to be able to connect to 3G.
IPad Mini tablet rumors [Photos]
The Guardian’s sources explain cellular connectivity is being left out in order to keep the device’s price low.
If this is true, it debunks earlier reports that pointed to pictures of alleged iPad mini parts. One of the images showed a slot on the tablet’s back cover similar to the one found on the cellular-enabled 9.7-inch iPad. The image also showed a SIM card tray, which would be necessary for a cellular-connected iPad mini.
As far as its other features, the iPad mini is expected to have a 7.85-inch screen with an aluminum back cover. It also is expected to include the new Lightning dock connector that Apple debuted on the iPhone 5.
However, all of this is moot unless Apple actually announces the device, which probably won’t happen unless it first sends out an event invite, which some reports said might come as early as Wednesday.
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