Apple has just introduced the long-rumored iPad Mini. After the Media Event, Apple gave reporters some time to enjoy hands on demos with the device. Most reporters are impressed by the build quality and lightness of the device. Check out after the break for first impressions and a hand-on video. » iPad Mini First Hand-On Impressions

Apple has introduced the iPad Mini at today’s media event. The iPad Mini Packs a 7.9-inch display with a resolution of 1024×768 pixels, measures just 7.2 millimeters thin and weighs only 0.68 pounds, making it 23 percent thinner and 53 percent lighter than the third generation iPad. It comes with FaceTime HD and iSight cameras, ultrafast wireless performance and an incredible 10 hours of battery life. » Apple Introduces iPad Mini, Starting at $329

Apple has released paid iBookstore content in 17 new countries including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil (Picture Above), Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, and Venezuela. Evidence of new markets for paid iBookstore content comes amid rumors of an iBooks 3.0 launch alongside the “iPad mini” at Apple’s media event later today. » Paid iBookstore Content Going Live In New Zealand & 17 Latin American Countries

Techie Buzz posted some photos showing the California Theatre in San Jose where Apple where Apple will hold their Media Event. California Theatre was last used this venue to introduce new iPod products back in 2004 and 2005. In Apple’s upcoming Media Event on October 23 at 10 AM Pacific / 1 PM Eastern, Apple is expected to introduce an 7,85-inch iPad “Mini“, iMacs, Mac minis and 13” Retina MacBook Pros. » California Theatre Decorated In For Apple’s Media Event

According to 9to5mac sources, the base model of the smaller iPad, (which “according to the latest rumors” will be announced on October 23 and released on November 2) will likely be priced at a minimum of $329 in the United States. They also noted that two higher capacities WiFi-only models will likely be priced at $100 premiums over each other at a minimum of $429 and $529. The iPad Mini WiFi + Cellular line will be priced at $459, $559, and $659. » iPad Mini Pricing Start At Approximately $329

Earlier we already wrote that Apple will most likely launch the “iPad Mini” on Friday, November 2th. Now TechCrunch reports that it has received information from its own sources pointing to the same date. As well as a German site iFun.de, claiming that Apple has informed a major shipping logistics partner that it should be preparing for a significant boost leading up to that date. » More Sources Confirming iPad Mini Launch Date On November 2

Apple has only just send out invites to a special event next Tuesday the 23rd of October where they are expected to announce their new iPad Mini, as well as a new 13 inch Retina MacBook Pro and possibly a new Mac Mini. Now Geeky-Gadgets received details about the iPad Mini release date from a trusted source, saying that it will be released in the US and UK on November 2. » iPad Mini Launch Date Is November 2