Apple Needs to Release the 'iPad Mini' Soon

This is a discussion thread for the "Apple Needs to Release the 'iPad Mini' Soon" story posted on the front page.

I just don't understand what the point would be. Why does anyone need the "iPad mini" when there's an iPhone or iPod touch? I mean, Steve Jobs said, "Is there room for a third category of device?" The answer is yes, but only one device. There is no reason why there would be a slightly smaller iPad. It would be against everything the iPad was made for. It would suck with web browsing, it would suck at typing emails, it would suck with games, etc. Imagine the keyboard. It would be such an awkward size. It's not full sized, so you can't rest your hands on the bezel to type, but it's too big to hold comfortably like an iPhone.

I'm sorry for this long rant. I just feel like this device is very pointless.

cool bro. you have power to imagine how the product works that doesn't even exist.
using portrait keyboard on Nexus 7 looks really good. both iOS and Android does have split keyboard for landscape typing. and didn't knew you would need to rest your hands on the bezel to type. i never needed it!

So basically make the iPod touch 7"

So does everyone else confirming the "iPhone 5."

Have you ever used the split keyboard on iOS? Maybe it's just me, but it's difficult to hold the iPad and type with that keyboard if you're not resting the bottom on something. Also, your last sentence confuses me. Are you saying "I didn't know that you have to rest your hands on the bezel to type. I never need to."? If that's the case, then why can't I type for a long period of time without eventually resting my hands on something?

The reason for the iPad Mini is simple. Its an Apple product and it will sell millions because of that fact. End of story.

I recall an Apple product called the Newton that failed miserably.

Yeah but wasnt that a product from the 80's? Now days its cool to buy Apple. Even if its not the best you can get. Apple is the thing to buy. For me atleast mostly because of the massive app store library.

probably cause many say iPad is heavy for holding long times...

An iPad Mini would sell millions no matter how average it would be, the majority of people don't buy Apple products because of how well they work but because they look nice or they want to be hip.