iPad mini aluminum outer shell pictured, we think

Whether you are excited about it or not, a smaller iPad model, presumably called the iPad mini, is expected to be announced in September or October. And as it usually happens prior to the unveiling of any kind of Apple gadget, alleged iPad mini components have been leaking on a regular basis – components like the redesigned dock connector and other kinds of assorted internals.

This time we have what is supposed to be the outer aluminum shell of the iPad mini. Cutouts for the back camera of the device, as well as for its side buttons and 3.5-millimeter headphone jack are visible on the sides. Of course, an opening for the rumored smaller dock connector is present, right where the device's speakers are also to be positioned. It is worth noting out that the button placement coincides with what we saw on those leaked iPad mini cases.

Rumor has it that the iPad mini will have a 7.85-inch display and will retail for much less than its 9.7-inch counterpart. However, chances are that we won't be seeing it on stage at the Apple press conference this month, rather a dedicated iPad mini event has been scheduled for October. 

source: digi.163 (translated) via Apple Insider