Apple reportedly to unveil iPhone 5, iPad Mini on Sept. 12

CNET

(CNET) Apple consumers could perhaps see the debut of both the new iPhone and an iPad Mini come September.

Citing "sources who have proven accurate in the past," blog site iMore says that Apple will announce the two devices at a special event on Wednesday, September 12. The iPhone 5 itself would then go on sale 9 days later on Friday, September 21.

This latest report follows a tidbit last week from French site App4Phone.fr (English translation), which pointed to a September 21 release date based on intel from Chinese manufacturing sources. The spacing itself jibes with last year's schedule when Apple unveiled the iPhone 4S on October 4 and then released it 10 days later.

iMore's sources were apparently mum about a launch date for the iPad Mini, but the site says it could reach consumers on the same day, a logical assumption. The smaller iPad would reportedly be exactly like its 9.7-inch brother, but just on a 7-inch scale.

Reports have surfaced about a new iPod Touch in the works, which could also be announced on September 12 as part of the upcoming lineup. A new iPod Nano may also be part of the mix. That promises a busy day launch day for Apple, but the company typically spruces up its iPhone announcement with updates to the iPod and other products.

iMore's sources also passed along information already reported by others. The new iPhone would offer a

iPhone 5 to offer 4-inch, 16:9 screen with HD camera, says analyst

, while all new iOS devices would come with a

iPhone 5 will launch with 19-pin Dock connector, report says

.

This report is still firmly in the rumor category. But a September release date for the next iPhone would make sense financially for Apple.

Last year, the company launched the iPhone 4S in October. Demand for the new phone rewarded Apple with a gangbuster calendar fourth quarter. But the third quarter suffered as smartphone buyers held off purchases in anticipation of the new iPhone. Releasing a new phone in September ensures that Apple ends the calendar third quarter on a high note, with the expected heavy demand extending into the fourth quarter.

This article originally appeared on CNET.

[hypnotoad72]

The claim made as to why sales dropped also an inference -- people held off on buying just because a new model is around the bend... there are other reasons, why is only one stated? Is journalism no longer capable of exploring conditions? Is that why the media is called "Liberal"?

And only one that Apple would appreciate, since Apple is known for playing up advertising gimmicks in the past? (all of those "rumor" articles every tech site posts that wore out all too quickly...) That doesn't seem very "Liberal" to me...

[hypnotoad72]

Follows by the iPad Maxi, we all know the shtick cable comedy shows will put out as a result.