The Apple Store goes down ahead of Ipad Mini announcement

SURPRISE SURPRISE, Apple has taken its online store offline just a few hours before its rumoured Ipad Mini announcement.

Direct your web browsers to apple.com/store and you'll be greeted with Apple's message, "We'll be back. We're busy updating the Apple Store and will be back soon," which appeared on Iphone 5 launch day last month.

We're not sure why Apple has to take its store offline hours before it announces a new product, but it's no doubt to stock its virtual shelves for the arrival of the Ipad Mini, which is expected to go up for preorder tonight.

It's still unclear what we can expect from the miniature tablet, but rumours hint that it will feature a smaller 7in Retina display, Apple's A6 processor, support for the firm's new Lightning cable and support for UK 4G connectivity.

There's also speculation that Apple will launch an updated Macbook lineup along with the tablet, as well as an upgraded version of its 10in Ipad tablet.

Unlike with previous announcements, those of you reading this who are excited about the imminent launch will be able to live stream the event. Apple has added a new "Events" category to its Apple TV set-top box, enabling its Ifans to watch the announcement as it happens from 6pm this evening in the UK. µ