iPad Mini unveiled by Apple as it enters small tablet market

Apple has launched its widely-anticipated 7.9in (20.1cm) tablet, the iPad Mini.

The device, which is 7.2mm thick and weighs 0.68lbs, was announced at an event in California.
In the US it will cost $329 (£206) for the wi-fi-only 16GB model, and will be available on 2 November.

The iPad Mini will compete directly with similar sized tablets from Google and Amazon.

The firm also announced upgrades to its Macbook Pro, iMac and Mac Mini ranges of computers.
The iPad Mini launch ends years of speculation that Apple was considering launching a new, smaller version of its bestselling iPad range.

In 2010, late founder Steve Jobs described 7in tablets as being "too small".

However, the company's apparent change of heart comes in the face of mounting pressure from its closest competitors, who are already offering smaller - and crucially, cheaper - products.

Amazon's new 7in Kindle Fire HD costs $199 (£159 in the UK). A slightly larger version, shipping on November 20, will sell for $299 (£159). Google's Nexus 7 has a price tag of $250 (£159).