Newest products

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it; but you can always make it smaller.  Apple has officially unveiled the iPad Mini, the latest version of their revolutionary tablet.  Prices are starting with a $329 (the 64 GB will retail for $659).  The iPad Mini’s 7.9 inch display gives it a leg up over its competition such as the Google Nexus and Amazon’s Kindle.  The screen size puts it right between the iPad and the iPhone, catering quite nicely to loyal Apple owners who were looking for the middle ground.  iPad Mini pre-orders are already being taken through major outlets and the device will be officially released in the United States on November 2.  How excellent, just in time for the holiday shopping season.  Although, Apple shares took a 2% hit immediately following the announcement due to investor letdown.

Apple has been dominating the tablet market ever since the inception of the initial iPad, and rightfully so.  The iPad’s versatility has made it a must-have for every office and is a vital component of any commuter’s day.  Interestingly enough, the late Steve Jobs had strongly opposed any tablet with a 7 inch screen, claiming that the in-between size would not appeal to consumers and also retain cost efficiency.  On that point, the iPad Mini is about $150 more than the Kindle and Nexus.  Regardless, Apple has always maintained their “cool factor” over other brands, which might help offset the hefty price tag for the Mini.

For a Google-oriented person like myself, Apple products is not one of my favorite topics. To be frank, the iPad Mini is not something I would ever consider buying.  Normally, I’d think most people would agree with me if it weren’t for the manufacturer behind the device.  The Apple crowd is a faithful group of consumers who will not hesitate to gobble up the latest release, regardless of the price.  This is truly a credit to Apple’s releases over the past 10 years or so.  There’s no denying that buying an Apple product has become an event, for a multitude of reasons.  The technology they cram into the palm of your hand is an accomplishment in an of itself.  Coupled with smart marketing campaigns, it’s no surprise that these guys are the best at what they do.