Rumors about a smaller iPad have been floating around for a while now, but reports about the device have been heating up in recent months, with several claims that the device will finally be making its debut this fall. Previously it was thought that the iPad mini could be introduced alongside Apple's new iPhone at an event on September 12, but now it looks like we may be waiting a bit longer for our first look at the tablet. According to sources speaking to AllThingsD, the new iPhone and smaller iPad will be unveiled at two separate events. The iPhone's debut is still said to be on track for a September 12 event, but the site's tipsters say that the shrunken iPad is set to break cover at an event sometime in October.

Why two separate events? The reasoning behind the decision, say this report's sources, is that two events will give both products their own time in the news spotlight. This rumor may not please folks that are aching to give Apple's take on a smaller tablet a try, but such a move makes sense, as it gives the Cupertino firm two different shots at being in the headlines for a period of time. While the specs of the still-unofficial smaller iPad are up in the air, it's been rumored that the device's display will measure between 7 and 8 inches, with a 7.85-inch screen being specifically mentioned on a couple of occasions.

Via AllThingsD