The much-awaited iPad Mini 4 is expected by Apple fans to be released by the fourth quarter of the year, but there are rumors claiming that it could already be revealed by June 8 during Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference.

Ecumenical News revealed this possibility of an early release date for the device could already be next week, adding that the device could also be hitting the market, alongside the iPad Pro, either later this month or in April.

According to MacWorld, the iPad Mini 4 is expected to be better than the iPad Mini, which lacked major developments and upgrades from its predecessor. It added that the upcoming device may come with an A9 processor, which is also rumored to power the new iPhones that are slated to be released in September. 

The iPad Mini 4 will also sport 2GB of RAM as well as WiFi capability.

Inquisitr added that the device will come with a 7.9-inch screen and will be the thinnest tablet ever developed.

Meanwhile, Vine Report said despite it being a lightweight device, the Mini 4 is still expected to outclass the performance of the Mini 3. It added that there are also rumors that the rear shell of the device will have similar elements found in the iPad Air 2.

The same report also highlighted that the upcoming iPad instalment will run the new iOS 9 and will also have a Touch ID sensor.

When it becomes available in the market, the Mini 4 is expected to have a price tag between $400 and $600, still a hefty sum of money which Apple should use as a motivation to do better with their latest offering.

Aside from the packed features that this tablet has, TechRadar said they expect more changes to happen with the iPad Mini 4. The site also said that a faster processor is needed for the iPad Mini 4 to showcase an obvious improvement on its performance.

Its market value is also expected to be lower since the Mini 3 failed to live up to its expectations. "It's especially hard to justify given how underpowered it is, but even with a specs boost we'd like to see a slightly lower price, otherwise unless you particularly want a smaller tablet it would make more sense just to pay a little extra and get a full size iPad Air," added Tech Radar.

While there are news that it may come out earlier as expected, Christian Today said the Apple tablet will likely come out in October.

Once the new device becomes available in the market, Apple will reportedly discontinue two of the current iPad mini models: the original iPad Mini and the iPad Mini 3. While many people will not agree with this decision, they might have to try the upcoming device first before making any conclusions.