Speculation around Apple iPad2 Release

If analysts are correct, we may see a new Apple iPad in April next year, with the iPad2 release likely to occur one year after the launch of the original.  The iPad has been one of the biggest – if not the biggest success story of 2010, so lots of people are interested in just how Apple are planning to improve on the original.

Brian Marshall from Wall Street firm Gleacher & Co says it is likely Apple will follow the same refresh path for the iPad as it has for the iPhone over the last three years.  “I think April is the proper time-frame for an iPad 2,” said Marshall, adding “Since I’m projecting that Apple will release a CDMA iPhone in March, both will help to equalize Apple’s seasonality.”

Just how the next generation iPad will differ from the original is still a matter of speculation, however it seems that Apple themselves have already left us with a few clues.  Most analysts, including Marshall, seem to think that the next generation iPad will have the same form factor as the original, with the major inclusion of a front facing camera.

Aaron Vronko from Rapid Repair has noted how Apple may have built the original iPad with an upgrade already in mind.  “It looks like it’s all ready for the camera, even including a hole in the glass for the lens,” said Vronko.  This provides a clue to how Apple and other major technology manufacturers function, with upgrades planned in advance and devices marketed again and again with only small improvements and additions.

Other iPad2 rumours include a better screen, more memory, a faster processor, and an iPhone4 style retina display, although all commentators seem in agreement that Apple wont delve into 7 inch territory.  However – one thing is for sure.  With more and more tablets entering the marketplace all the time, you can be sure that Apple are investing a lot of money into research and development in order to stay at the head of the pack.