Microsoft's second-generation Surface and new Android-based tablets are expected to be impacted by Apple's launch of the next-generation iPad and iPad mini as the company is likely to reduce its existing iPad and iPad mini prices, according to "DigiTimes" (http://tinyurl.com/k7hyfdr), quoting unnamed "sources from the upstream supply chain."

The iPad mini is currently priced starting US$329, while the full size iPad is priced starting $499. The next-generation iPad and iPad mini are expected to retain the same price ranges, while existing models' new prices are expected to impact 10-inch tablet models with prices above $399 and 7-inch models with prices above $299, the article says.

Microsoft's Surface 2 series tablets are expected to be the most impacted as the Surface Pro 2 is priced starting $899 and the Surface 2 is priced at $449. Although Microsoft claims to have seen good pre-orders, "DigiTimes" says its sources says demand still isn't very strong.

Although Nokia is expected to release 10-inch tablets featuring Windows 8.1 or RT in the near future with pricing at around $499, those sources don't think the tablets are likely to sell well.