If Cihra has reasons for believing that, AppleInsider didn't explain them. The small iPad could be available with a wider range of storage options, and a cellular connectivity option, spanning price points from about $250 to $650. That overlaps the $400 iPad 2, but the latter still gives a lower price point, albeit with "older" technology, for the full-size tablet.

Cihra estimates that Apple will sell around 7 million of the small iPads in this last calendar quarter, and another 19 million full-size iPads.

Two sets of photos, purporting to show the itsyPad's LCD screen and battery, were published this week by ETrade Supply International, which deals in repair parts supply and distribution.

"Today we have got from the electronic market some parts which are said to be iPad Mini parts," .