iPhone 5, iPad Mini set for September release?

An outstanding July for Apple's suppliers has been an indication that Apple is preparing for production for the upcoming release of its new iPhone and iPad Mini in four weeks said an analyst.

Brian White of Topeka Capital Markets points that Apple's Taiwanese component maker's sales to Apple have upped 14 percent from June to July. The June-to-July sales increased by an average of 8.5 percent over the last seven years.

"We believe this strength reflects the Apple supply chain ramping up production of new products for Apple that are expected to launch this September," White said.

Analysts predict the next Apple iPhone dubbed the iPhone 5 is posed to be released along with iPad Mini. The stories of iPad Mini were thought to be fictional since former Apple head Steve Jobs denounced the idea of a small tablet. There have been rumors of exclusive features that iPad Mini might contain. Online site, 9to5Mac reported that the iPad Mini might take design cues from iPod Touch.

Apple has not publicly commented on the iPhone or the iPad but many analysts feel the company will release at least one product on Sept. 12.

Apple has admitted a lower margin for the quarter that ends on Sept 30.

Rumors of Amazon coming out with its Kindle Fire 2 version in September are also making the rounds. Google has already released the Nexus 7 and Microsoft recently unveiled its Surface tablet. Barnes & Noble has slashed prices of its Nook in hopes of keeping up with the competition. 

White said that Apple is looking at a big third quarter and an even bigger fourth.

"[This] sets up what we believe will be the biggest second-half product launch in Apple's history," he said.

Apple might price the 7.85-inch iPad Mini less than $399 range. Microsoft's 10.6-inch Surface is priced at $199.

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