We still don't know exactly when the iPad mini 2 release date is, all Apple has provided us with is "later in November" - but the reason for this may have just become apparent.
According to IHS Inc there is only a limited production of the new iPad mini's 7.9-inch Retina display, potentially nailing Apple with huge supply issues of its pint-size tablet update for the final few months of 2013.
Apple store scrum
IHS predicts demand for the new iPad mini 2 will be nearly 9 million units, so that's a huge discrepancy between supply and slavering lust (or just general want) from consumers.
If this is the case then expect the usual Apple store scrum when the iPad mini 2 with Retina display release date is finally announced, as evangelists for the firm's smaller form factor tablet queue round the block and bombard online pre-orders.
Sell outs within hours of the tablet going on pre-order/sale could well be a given if the supply issues ring true, so if you're looking for a sure thing it may be better to focus your attentions on the (more expensive) iPad Air which will arrive on November 1.
- Find out what we make of Apple's new tablets in our hands on: iPad mini 2 review and iPad Air review
