Change is often incremental. No one is suggesting you should replace your <1 year old iPad mini with the new model. To see how much tablets have improved, compare an original iPad with its original software to the new retina iPad mini running the current OS and apps.
Exactly this. I didn't buy an iPad since the first generation one, and it's been getting really long in the tooth.
I was really looking forward to the new series of iPads because I would like a new one, and also one which uses the same charger connection as my iPhone 5. :)
Now I expect the iPad Air to last me for quite awhile.
NB: ‘What’s-his-name’ is Justin Long.