If you’re on the fence about purchasing a $399 iPad 2, now may be the time to make up your mind. According to an AppleInsider report, Apple could phase out the iPad 2 once the iPad Mini goes on sale. The report is based on a note Evercore Partners analyst Rob Cihra sent to investors this week, in which Cihra claims Apple will stop selling the iPad 2 to support the company’s overall vision.
Apple’s vision calls for “clearer product tiers” for its product lines. With the iPad Mini set to significantly lower the barrier to entry on the iPad lineup with the rumored $249 to $299 starting price point for the base level iPad Mini, Cihra feels there simply won’t be a need for the now 18-month-old iPad 2. The 7.85″ iPad Mini is expected to come with multiple storage capacities, with 8, 16, 32, and 64GB variants at increasing price points, and will be unveiled at Apple’s event on October 23rd in San Jose.
[via Apple Insider]