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iPad Mini already in production in Brazil, says report

According to a new report, Apple's next iPad -- or at least the smaller version of it -- is already being produced in Brazil.

Josh Lowensohn Former Senior Writer
Josh Lowensohn joined CNET in 2006 and now covers Apple. Before that, Josh wrote about everything from new Web start-ups, to remote-controlled robots that watch your house. Prior to joining CNET, Josh covered breaking video game news, as well as reviewing game software. His current console favorite is the Xbox 360.
Josh Lowensohn
A worker in Chengdu, China helping to manufacture Apple's products.
A worker in Chengdu, China helping to manufacture Apple's products. Apple

A smaller version of Apple's iPad is already in production according to a new report.

Citing an anonymous source, Japanese Apple blog Macotakara today says that production of the product is under way in a "Brazilian factory."

No other details on parts of physical form factor or offered, short of that the same source says the unit is missing a microphone on its backside, a rumored design cue currently found in Apple's iPhone 5.

Apple has been rumored to be splitting up production of a smaller iPad between two manufacturers, Foxconn and Pegatron. Foxconn began assembling iPhones in the industrial town of Jundiai earlier this year. The factories there are considerably smaller than Foxconn's Chinese operations, and initially worked on notebooks, monitors and other electronics for competing technology companies.

It goes without saying that a smaller iPad has not been announced by Apple, though is expected to be later this month. A report from Fortune earlier today suggested Apple plans to send out invites to a press event as early as next week.