When the original iPad mini was announced a couple of years ago, it took the mobile industry by storm, and it sold more than then Apple's only tablet lineup. However, the iPad mini 3 release date this year may not get the same treatment.

The original iPad mini was a very compact device that boasts powerful specs, and that is what exactly endeared it to fans in the past. In fact, just weeks after the 7.9-inch slate made its way to the market, consumers are already waiting for the Retina version which would arrive a year later. 

However, when the Cupertino manufacturer unveiled the iPad mini with Retina display last year, it was clearly eclipsed by its sibling brother, the iPad Air. 

And this year, it looks the popularity crown will be awarded to the iPad Air for the second straight year. 

Some rumored specs which have been floating around for months points to a sapphire display, a Touch ID fingerprint-sensing home button, a much powerful A8 chip, and an 8MP primary camera at the back. The upcoming tablet is also expected to feature the latest iOS 8 update which will include home automation functions, and more health-tracking related apps. 

While the iPad mini Retina did not do well last year, it is still expected to get the attention of consumers who love its quality and portability. 

One particular rumor pointed out that there wouldn't be a Retina mini this year, but instead an Apple iPad mini Air that would get similar design to current iPad Air. 

Apple is doing a good job launching devices which would compete with each other, but belongs to different price groups. That way, the Cupertino manufacturer can gain a wider coverage of the market. 

Let's see in the next weeks whether the iPad mini 3 release date will cause a stir in the market.