Although the hype surrounding the launch of the much-anticipated iPhone 5 has suppressed any news relating to the iPad Mini, it is likely that the iPad heir apparent will be released around Sept. 12 along with the iPhone 5.

The iPad Mini is expected to be a 7-inch tablet, in direct competition with Amazon Kindle and Google Nexus 7. Here are a few anticipated features that the iPad Mini would comprise.

Design

At about two-thirds the size of the regular iPad, the iPad Mini will be slightly taller and wider than Google Nexus 7, with a 7.85 inch Retina Display. Rumors also suggest that iPad Mini may feature an IGZO display - a technology which offers better screen experience than the LCD.

Processor and OS

iPad Mini will feature quad-core graphics and low-power chip features. Reports suggest that it may include an A5X chip, the same one carried by the third-generation iPad. Additionally, the iPad Mini will run Apple's next-gen iOS 6.

LTE Connectivity

The new iPad Mini is expected to work on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, along with the LTE connectivity that raises the price of Apple products.

Camera

Rumors suggest that iPad Mini will come with both front and rear cameras, but recently leaked pictures showed no camera on the rear.

The launch dates for the iPad Mini and the iPhone 5 have not yet been announced, though rumors have focused on Sept. 12 as a likely date.

"We try very hard to keep our product road-map secret and confidential. We go to extreme activities to try and do that.That, however, doesn't stop people from speculating and wondering," said Apple CEO Tim Cook.