Apple event predictions: 3D Apple, iPad Air, Mini, Yosemite

Several new bits and pieces are being tipped towards release this week as Apple's next big event takes place tomorrow, the 16th of October. We'll be there with bells on – and information releases as fast as you can read them. There we'll see all manner of new devices, likely an iPad Air update, a new iPad Mini, and more than likely an official releasing of OS X Yosemite for desktop and notebook machines of all kinds – including a tipped new MacBook Air with Retina display – though that's just a less-than-respectable rumor.

It's the precariously positioned Digitimes that gives the newest rumor some clout – a 3D Apple logo. Apple's newest feature – though it's a bit of a non-feature – is a 3D-like Apple logo at the back of their devices. Laser cut and shiny around the edges, they say – starting with the 2015 iMac. Sort of one of those "oh that's sort of neat, I guess," sorts of things.

The new tipped MacBook Air with Retina Display is the least likely of the rumor pack this week. Coming also from DigiTimes, this rumor has already been refuted several times over by sources speaking with more often correct publications. Don't hold your breath, that is to say.

A new iPad Air is far more likely. We've seen tips on an upgraded processor and RAM, all the basics you've come to expect with a next-gen release from Apple. Making a good thing just a little bit better.

We're expecting Beats will make an appearance in one way or another – gotta keep up the fervor!

Apple Pay has been suggested to be launching on October 18th, so we may hear a bit more about how that'll be spread. Perhaps integration with the iPad Air – though that'd be a bit silly considering most people with this tablet already own the newest iPhone as well.

Though we've seen a new iTunes roll out with the oncoming release of OS X Yosemite, you probably shouldn't get too pumped up about a new set of iPods. It may be time to kiss the iPod goodbye, as Nate Swanner suggests.

A release we're expecting might make a small appearance is HomeKit, Apple's smart home initiative. This will center in on the Apple TV, much to Icahn's joy.

One thing is for certain – we will not see another free music album. Bono has assured us of that. We're hoping Apple includes Daft Punk in whatever they bring. It would be too fabulous.