Apple iPad 'Mini' Coming This October: Report

A new report appears to confirm that Apple is working on developing a smaller version of its popular iPad tablet computer. Known as the iPad "Mini," the new device will reportedly be ready for an October, 2012 launch.

The report stems from a recent blog post by John Gruber, who is considered a reliable technology insider by many industry experts. Gruber recently suggested that an iPad Mini would launch at least a month after the iPhone 5, which analysts believe will ship September 21.

Apple to Pace Product Releases

Gruber argues that Apple doesn't want to bombard consumers with two products at once. "Why share the spotlight? Why have another Apple product battling with the iPhone for the top spots in news coverage?" Gruber asked on his blog.

"The iPhone is too big, too cool, and garners too much attention -- and it's in Apple's interest to keep that attention undiluted," he added. (Source: daringfireball.net)

Gruber's opinion is shared and supported by others, who also suggest Apple's new iPad Mini will start shipping this October.

"Expect two Apple events to be announced in the days and weeks ahead with Apple's two biggest hardware announcements of the year to follow," notes AllThingsD writer John Paczkowski. (Source: allthingsd.com)

Official Announcements Yet to Come

Of course, Apple has not officially commented on the rumors, nor has it given any indication that it will release either an iPhone 5 or an iPad Mini later this year.

In fact, the Cupertino, California-based firm hasn't indicated that such devices even exist.

Of course, common sense suggests that they do exist and that Apple would benefit from having both devices enter the tech marketplace as soon as possible.

Amid widespread rumors of an iPad Mini and iPhone 5 nearing retail release, Apple's share values soared to unprecedented heights last week. That's a clear indication each product would receive a warm welcome from consumers.