Next-generation iPad to make October 15 debut

A new version of Apple's iPad tablet, as well as an updated Mac Pro desktop and a refreshed Apple TV, are expected to be revealed at a special event.

According to French Apple rumors and news site MacGeneration, which has a 50/50 batting average when scooping such things, Apple has chosen October 15 for its next product reveal, meaning that tech journalists will be getting their virtual invites in the digital mail in the coming days.

Whether or not it's the right date, it seems likely that Apple is about to launch refreshed tablets and will do so before the holiday season kicks into high gear. So what exactly should consumers expect, and should they be getting excited?

In terms of tablets, Apple will be launching a full-sized iPad with a slimmer, smaller, lighter design but, thanks to a reduced screen bezel, one that will not reduce the device's 9.7-inch Retina display size. It is also expected to get the A7 processor bump that the latest iPhone received so that it will be capable of running 64-bit programs and therefore able to address more RAM for heftier processing.

Joining it will be a new iPad Mini which will look remarkably similar to the one it will be replacing, except that it will now have a high-definition Retina display too. Like with its iPhone launches, every new iteration of an iPad features three things -- a catch-up feature: something missing from the product that competitors' products have as standard; a fix or improvement to an existing feature or service; and a ‘killer' new application to keep it ahead of the pack -- so don't be surprised to discover on launch day that the new iPads also feature fingerprint-scanning technology.

However, what is not likely to be revealed is a low-cost plastic iPad. Though the company is rumored to be developing such a device, it is not expected to launch until 2014 for fears of cannibalizing sales of its existing tablet range.

Alongside the tablets, Apple should be able to finally confirm launch date, performance specifications and pricing for the eagerly awaited Mac Pro power-user desktop. After all, it has already been running teaser ads at cinemas and on YouTube.

Finally, its Apple TV streaming box is also expected to get a refresh that will include greater functionality and maybe even one or two physical design tweaks now that it finally has some competition from Android in the form of Google's Chromecast. There's also a good chance that its Pro notebook range will get the Intel Haswell chip treatment, which will mean better graphics performance, faster processing speeds and better battery life. In MacGeneration's report it is also claimed that new iMacs and Mac Minis will be seen at the event.