Mobile accessory companies are already producing iPad 5 cases based on rumours ahead of launch.
- WWDC 2013: iRadio, iOS 7, OS X 10.9, the iWatch and Apple TV
- iPad 5 shipping in Q3 with iPad Mini 2 by Christmas
Case-maker Gumdrop has produced the first iPad 5 case based on the device’s rumoured specifications ahead of Apple’s WWDC 2013 conference. It’s a bold move, particularly as many rumours point to there being no Apple hardware launch until the Autumn, probably around September if previous launches are any kind of measure.
Earlier rumours indicate the iPad 5 will adopt the iPad Mini’s aesthetic style in the larger 9.7-inch format, including narrower side bezels and an overall thinner, lighter bodyshell.
This move is, of course, nothing new. We’ve seen plenty of case manufacturers making similar early bids ahead of previous launches. Several made iPad Mini cases before it was official and before the iPhone 4S launched a number of case makers produced an iPhone 5 case.
According to a report from Trusted Reviews, this approach has worked for Gumdrop in the past, however, its iPad Mini case hit the market before the device launched and fit the tablet ‘perfectly’.
Gumdrop CEO Tim Hickman spoke to 9to5Mac, saying: ‘Business has been good to Gumdrop and we can afford to take a pretty big bet, because the payoff is massive if we are right.’
Working on the assumption that the Gumdrop case is accurately sized, Hickman added: ‘I’m amazed at how much smaller the overall form factor is, given the screen size is the same. That’s really an amazing piece of engineering by the Apple team.’
WWDC 2013 isn’t expected to see the unveiling of any hardware, however. Apple is expected to focus on the new build of iOS, iOS 7, which has had a complete overhaul under the guidance of designer Jony Ive.
Apple device launches are expected to follow by the end of the year, with the iPad 5, iPad Mini 2, iPhone 5S and a budget iPhone all on the cards.
It’s thought the iPad Mini 2 will see its launch alongside the iPad 5 as with the first-generation model and the fourth-generation full-size iPad launching side-by-side in late 2012.
by pbriden via Featured Articles
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