The new iOS 5 and the iPhone 5 could be on the way soon, as it is being reported that Apple is secretly denying requests for employee vacations during the second week of October.

Apple Insider has reported that this may be a hint that the iPhone maker is anticipating an increase in foot traffic to its stores around that time.

Sources close to the developments told Apple Insider that Apple has blacked out vacation time for employees from Oct. 9 to 12 and Oct. 14 to 15.

It is believed that between the Oct. 9 and 12 could be for the release of iOS 5.

Other reports have noted that Twitter has scheduled a developer event and a pair of Developer Teatimes for Oct. 10 and 12.

Apple Insider reported that with a heavy focus on the social service's integration with iOS 5, this move suggests that Apple's non-disclosure terms for the new mobile OS will be lifted through a public release of the software.

If the iOS 5.0 rolls out on Oct. 10 as rumored, that would mean the following round of blackout dates could be for the iPhone 5's potential launch.

Rumors have been circulating that Apple will have an Oct. 4 meeting where it will unveil the iPhone 5.

Electronics ITunes Apple inc. Apple