iPad Mini May Skip 3G, Feature Wi-Fi Only

Earlier iPad Mini leaks suggested that Apple’s rumored 7.85 iPad might come with 3G connectivity. However, a new report claims that the device, which could join the new third-generation iPad as soon as November, might not feature cellular data at all and may only come in Wi-Fi only form.

The Guardian reports that sources have told them that the iPad Mini, rumored to be launching later this month, may only be coming with Wi-Fi connectivity. The publication also states that there might be a revised 9.7-inch iPad on the way complete with Lighting dock connector and the ability to work with the 4G LTE network run by U.K. Everything Everywhere.

If true, that would mean that the iPad Mini would not be able to run on 3G networks, as has been rumored in the past, nor would it be able to run on 4G LTE networks on AT&T or Verizon. In comparison, the 9.7-inch iPad runs on the 4G LTE networks of both AT&T and Verizon which means that it picks up data speeds that can reach up to 10 times faster than normal 3G.

Read: iPad Mini Design Could Be Slicker Than the New iPad.

It also means that the device can be used outside of Wi-Fi networks.

However, it looks like Apple may be releasing the iPad Mini with Wi-Fi only, possibly in an effort to cut down costs. Apple is rumored to be releasing the device with a price that is competitive with Google’s Nexus 7 tablet and Amazon’s Kindle Fire HD slate. The Nexus 7 and Kindle Fire HD both start at the same price, $199.

Fortunately, we should know soon as Apple is heavily rumored to be sending out invites for an event, possibly as soon as tomorrow, that is scheduled to take place later on this month. Right now, October 17th is the possible launch date with November 3rd checking in as a possible release date.

iPad Mini Rumors

Apple’s iPad Mini is expected to feature a 7.85-inch display with resolution that is lesser than that of the new iPad’s Retina Display. It may use an aspect ratio of 16:9, same as the iPhone 5, for widescreen content.

Read: iPad Mini Rumor Roundup.

It’s also rumored to have 16GB of storage space and a design that resembles a larger iPod touch with thinner bezels on the side. The design is also said to possibly be slicker than the 9.7-inch iPad in that it might be more comfortable to hold.

A camera or two remains possible as well.

The iPad Mini will be a tablet option for those that want to view content on a device that isn’t as small as a phone but isn’t as big as a full-sized tablet. At its size, which is rumored to be 2/3rds the size of the regular iPad, it will be much more portable making it perfect for trips and commutes.