The iPad mini 3 release date should not be expected until October or November, the same time the first Retina-powered iPad mini hit the market. 

However, a new report shows that some retailers may already be preparing for the upcoming Apple slate. 

According to a report by Christian Today, retailer Target is now offering the iPad mini Retina, as well as the iPad Air with a $100 gift card. Anyone who cannot wait for the iPad mini 3 release date can buy the iPad mini Retina instead, or the super thin iPad Air, and get a free gift card for future purchases from the retailer. 

However, if you are interested in availing this promo, you will need to hurry as the promo reportedly ends on July 12. 

In the report, the gift card has a fine print that says:

"If you want to return the item you purchased to a Target Store, you may either keep the gift card and just return the qualifying item (you will be refunded the amount of the qualifying item reduced by the amount of the gift card), or you can return the qualifying item and the gift card for a full refund using the online receipt. If you return the item you purchased by mail, keep the gift card; you will be refunded the amount of the qualifying item reduced by the amount of the gift card." 

Whether the iPad mini Retina 2 will arrive in October or November, we still don't know but certainly reports are pointing towards that direction. 

Other reports are also claiming that production for the two upcoming Apple slates will begin later this month or in August, just in time for a release by October or November. 

The iPad mini 3 release date, and the iPad Air 2 are expected to pack a number of new features including a Touch ID home button, an A8 chipset that suppors 64-bit applications, the latest iOS 8 operating system, an 8-megapixel shooter and the gorgeous Retina display.