A Chinese Web site says a "mini iPad" will be released this year to go up against Windows 8-based tablets.

Chinese Web portal NetEase says the smaller Apple device could cost $249 to $299, with 6 million devices ready to go at launch this year, PC Magazine reported Monday.

Other tech sources have reported Apple currently is working with a 7.85-inch tablet model in its labs.

Daring Fireball writer and Apple observer John Gruber said "numerous" people have told him Apple has been "noodling with" the size of the iPad, which currently has a 9.7-inch screen.

A Samsung official whose name was not reported told The Korea Times Apple plans to launch a smaller iPad by the end of the year.

Apple has made no announcements about its tablet plans and is still busy rolling out its third-generation tablet, set to be released Friday in South Korea and 11 other countries.