Samsung has indicated that the Galaxy S4 Mini will commence its global circulation by July 2013 but a new set of leaked images pointed to the likelihood that the scaled-down flagship handset is programmed for an earlier release date.

Engadget picked up six photos of the GS4 Mini, showing off the completed Android phone scaled against the Galaxy S3. The images were contributed by a Weibo user with a PunkPanda handle.

However, aside from proving that the GS4 Mini exists, PunkPanda provided no further details save for the information that Samsung had already issue.

The smaller GS4 version is reportedly geared for a global release but initial deployment is likely to happen first in emerging markets, specifically on select European and Asian destinations.

SamMobile has earlier reported that the GS4 Mini will come in various flavours - differing in CPU servings. Samsung will release the handset in some markets as a quad-core device and dual-core in others.

A dual-SIM variant is also reportedly planned for a rollout in China, where the option is a popular rage among consumers wanting to take advantage of using two different networks in a single mobile phone.

As seen in the photos, the alleged 4.3-inch qHD Super AMOLED screen of the GS4 Mini is not entirely dwarfed by the GS3, which is measured at 4.7-inch.

Analysts view the GS4 Mini as part of Samsung's deliberate effort to dominate all possible market segments, giving users an alternative, specifically those who remain uncomfortable in using phablet-size handset.

Also, the handset will attempt to lure smartphone users away from the iPhone 5 and the iPhone 5S, experts said, adding that the Samsung phone should convince many to jump over due to its slightly larger screen and cheaper price.

Samsung has yet to determine the price mark for the GS4 Mini though analysts believe it will retail with the same price range of the Galaxy S3 Mini. Unlocked, the latter handset started selling between $300 and $400 but some telcos around the world offer it for free in exchange for contract.