Apple iPad Mini 4 release date, specs, rumors: Samsung's A9 chipset will be used in Apple's upcoming device

(REUTERS/David McNew)

After the disappointment brought by the release of iPad Mini 3, many Apple fans are excited and anticipating the release of the next generation device in the series. Although Apple has not confirmed the release date, iPad Mini 4 is slated to become available by October 2015.

But the question is whether the fourth version of the hugely popular Apple Mini will be able to measure up to the expectations and increasing hype surrounding the device?

Online rumors have been providing different information regarding the details of the upcoming device. An article by latinopost.com has reported that the iPad Mini 4 will closely resemble the iPad Air with a 12.2-inch display, dual speakers at the top and bottom, and running iOS 8 or iOS 9. On the other hand, a post by Venturecapitalist.com has speculated that the iPad Mini 4 will feature a 7.9-inch display screen, 2GB RAM and 802.11ac Wi-Fi support.

The most interesting rumor, however, revolves around the chipset powering the iPad Mini 4 and supposed deal Apple has made with Samsung.

In an interview with key technology decision makers by Bloomberg, the two rival tech giants were reported to have entered into an agreement, with Samsung to supply A9 chipsets to Apple.

"Winning this order from Apple will help the world's second-largest chipmaker rebound against TSMC, which last year ended Samsung's monopoly over contracts to make iPhone and iPad chips. Both manufacturers have boosted capital expenditures to gain business from Apple and Qualcomm Inc. in the more than $300 billion semiconductor industry," wrote Bloomberg.

It was assumed that the iPad Mini 4 would be unveiled at the "Spring Forward" event that took place last March. The device was never showcased and Apple released only the Apple Watch and the gold Retina MacBook Pro at the event.

Just like its rumored specs, there are only speculations surrounding the iPad Mini 4's release date, though it is safe to assume that the device will be available at the end of 2015.

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