iPad Mini 2 Release Date: After Google's Next Nexus 7-Inch Tablet (Rumor)

Speculation on the next iPad Mini having a Retina display is growing stronger and there's now a rumor that the tablet may release after Google launches their next Nexus 7 tablet, according to an analyst.

DisplaySearch analyst Paul Semenza has told CNET that Apple is likely to launch the iPad Mini with Retina display during the third or fourth quarter of 2013, right after Google releases its next 7-inch tablet under the Nexus 7 brand.

"We're seeing potential in the third quarter of panel production for a higher-resolution iPad Mini," said Semenza on Friday. "When would the Mini be available? Could be third quarter or fourth quarter."

According to Semenza, the iPad Mini 2 will sport a pixel resolution of 2,048x1,536, up from the current 1,024x768 resolution on the current iPad Mini.

"That's the typical step up when you go to Retina," the DisplaySearch analyst added, noting the pixels per inch (ppi) will also increase from 162 to 324.

The analyst then stated Google's next small tablet will likely have better a better resolution than the current iPad Mini but not near the expectations for the iPad Mini 2.

"For the Google Nexus 7, we're seeing the potential for stepping up to a 1,920 x1,200 'HD+' kind of format. We're seeing panel production possibly in the second quarter," said Semenza, noting the ppi will jump to 323.

The current 7-inch tablet by Google has a resolution of 1,280x800 with 216 ppi.

The latest on the iPad Mini's sequel comes as Apple has started selling refurbished iPad Minis and the iPad 4s. As per Apple's refurbished policy, the Cupertino-based company has tested and certified the iPads, which come with a one-year warranty. The refurbished tablets, although in limited supply, are installed with a new battery and outer case shell. For prices and models available for sale, click here.

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