Due to ongoing avalanche of rumours and relatively reliable information, we almost do not have doubts that the smaller iPad version will be called iPad Mini.

However, the name of the new devices from Apple was not always able to guess; even we knew other information about the device. For example, in the case with the first iPad, not all were sure that it will be called that way, and in blogosphere was easy to find an iSlate name, which looks awkward for now. So while we cannot be sure that on October 23 the projector on the stage of the theatre of California will display „iPad Mini“. In this article we will try to summarize the available data about the possible name of the budget tablet, and if on following Tuesday we will find out that Cupertino friends have decided to name it differently, we can tell you: “You know, we said that!”.

Of course, the name «iPad Mini» looks the most logical. But we know Apple company and we know that the logic of these comrades is very specific. For example, after iPad and iPad 2, all naturally expected for iPad 3, the publicity has seen an appeared device called «The new iPad». Then, users has got the new nomenclature and began to wait for the „The new iPhone“following the iPhone 4S. However, Apple has decided to launch iPhone 5, despite the fact that in reality it is a sixth-generation of smartphone. Even in a poll conducted by technology blogs, the majority of readers said they are expected «The new iPhone». Therefore, six days before the October 23 the situation is not so perfectly clear as it seems.

Let‘s remember that the name iPad Mini calls to mind an iPod Mini. After some time, iPod nano was replaced it, and this name a compact player has till today. If someone prefers Nano word, possibly we may expect the appearance of iPad Nano? However, the word «nano» means absolutely tiny size, while the tablet is still not too different from his elder brother in size.

There is another meaningless but noteworthy version. If you look at the render of slimline iPad, you can see that it has a separate volume control buttons and will be offered in different colours housing. In other words, looks like a new gadget suits to iPod touch not less than to iPad. So could it be, that Apple wants to make a cunning move and sell the device not as slimline iPad but as an oversize iPod? In this way, comes to mind names like iPod Maxi, iPod XXL or iPod HD.

Also, do not forget that sometimes Apple likes to use a postscript S? If slimline iPad will be consider as in-between model as iPhone 3GS and iPhone 4S in some time, then it is possible that it will be called iPad S.

And finally, just for fun, let‘s quote one of our readers, who suggested that the budget version of the Apple tablet will be called „The Little iPad“. Of course, it looks very funny. From the other side: do Apple used the word “little“vainly in his invitation to the conference. And what’s your opinion, dear readers? Are you completely sure that the new product will be called iPad Mini?