I get a bit confused on which device has which processor. Last year, did the iPhone 5 and the iPad (not Mac...thanks, Dutch Pear
) mini share the same processor? Or was the mini a bit behind?
I ask because I'm betting (I've even read online) that the full iPad will have a A7x, which leaves some "fill-in" room for a new mini to use an A7.
Yeah, it would require a two-generation jump (although perhaps they could use the A6x, found in the current full-size iPads?
Hell, I don't know.
But I think they'll figure out a way to make it happen. Just a gut hunch.
EDIT: I just checked, and the current mini has an A5, and the iPhone 5 has the A6 (and the current full-size iPad has an A6x).
What a mess.
But, in theory, they could have an A6x Retina-based mini, the new A7 iPhones and an A7x full size iPad? The two iPads separated by a generation, yet the mini would get the Retina and could perform as well as a current iPad. Everyone would be happy with that.