2013 is proving a tougher year for Apple, as they face an increasing challenge from competitors such as Samsung. One of Apple's biggest selling products is the iPad Mini, so it makes sense for them to enhance its capabilities. According to the latest reports, Apple have two refreshes of the small tablet coming in the near future.

The news this time is sourced by CNET who are quoting DisplaySearch analyst Richard Shim. He told them that Apple will launch the 2nd generation iPad Mini with Retina display in Q3 this year. He also sees a 3rd generation iPad mini with Retina display and updated processor dropping a few months later in Q2 2014.

Shim added that the first Retina iPad mini should go into production around June or July. This would tie in properly with a Q3 launch.

LG Display should be the company involved in the production of the screen and Shim says that Samsung should not be involved, indicating the weak relationship the companies are sharing right now.

The indicators would point to a doubling of screen resolution, from 1024×768 to 2048×1536. This makes upscaling of older applications less hassle.

Apple may however be chasing other companies this time, as Google and Asus are planning to release a high res Nexus 7 later this month at Google I/O 2013. Amazon are also planning to release higher resolution Kindle Fire tablets later in the year.

Apple will need to be very active with their iPad mini updates if they want to remain ahead of the pack. It is a key product for the Cupertino company as they have struggled to keep up with demand through the holiday periods.

Kitguru says: High res Nexus 7 or Retina iPad Mini?

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