In just over a week, on September 12th, Apple is rumored to hold their annual iPhone unveiling event. With no shortage of rumors and leaks surrounding the sixth-generation device, anticipation for the event couldn’t be higher.
Also, it’s been suggested, by more that one report, that Apple will also unveil a new iPad with a screen measuring close to 7.85 inches – unofficially dubbed the iPad Mini – during the event that’s expected to take place next week. Only days ago, the developer of Instapaper revealed that he had uncovered what are believed to be references to the unreleased iPad Mini. However, the iPhone unveiling event could be just that, an exclusive event to unveil the latest and greatest iPhone model. In which case, Apple would likely announce a device such as a miniature iPad during the separate and smaller October event they’ve held in years past.
Recently, according to Apple.Pro, a physical mockup of what a smaller iPad is excepted to look like (based on leaks) was created. Thy physical mockups take into account the rumored narrower side bezel (similar to both the iPod Touch and iPhone’s design), an incredibly thin form factor and even the new redesigned 8-pin dock connector that’s expected to be introduced by the next-generation iPhone.
Also, as pictured above, Giga.de posted images of a pure metal physical mockup that further conveys the device’s expected dimensions and overall form-factor. Now, the real question is whether or not Apple will indeed release a smaller tablet to compete in the 7-inch market space. Stay tuned for complete coverage on Apple, their upcoming iPhone refresh and the rumored iPad Mini.
