Multi-media giants Apple are due to release a second-generation iPad (as reported by cheapest-iPod.com on 22nd November) within the next couple of months. The innovative tablet is expected to be on the market by the end of March or early April and predictions by analysts at Goldman Sachs are suggesting the revamp will include at least five new features.
The new iPad, which is designed using the blueprint of the iPhone 4, is expected to be thinner and lighter than the current model and fitted with a 9.7-inch screen complete with Retina display for clearer and sharper images. The analysts also suggest the iPad will have gyroscope, a mini USB port and front-facing built-in camera which allows FaceTime capability.
If reports from Goldman Sachs are true, Apple can expect to see their share prices soar, though predictions made by the US investment bank in the past have not been reliable. Given their predictions this time round, the likelihood of the 2nd generation iPad having increased mobility seems to be the only safe bet.
Having said that, it is not beyond Apple to include an embedded camera. This would give the iPad the innovative FaceTime feature, thus bringing the new tablet in line with Apple’s other iOS models and allowing consumers to have video conversations. Whereas Gyroscope also seems certain to be included there are question marks concerning the Retina Display due to the cost of implementing such a feature.
However, industry insiders report Globaldirectparts.com are thought to be supplying Apple with a 2-LCD screen, and although this hasn’t been confirmed it will be used for the 2nd generation tablet, the rumours regarding the high-resolution screen fit in with Apple’s original plans who reportedly want to quadruple the number of pixels on the forthcoming iPad to 2048×1536.
Another feature that is reported will be added to the upcoming tablet is a vibrating alert. In addition to the high-res screens industry insiders also confirmed parts suppliers, Globaldirectparts.com have supplied Apple with a vibrating motor and speculated it was most likely for the new iPad. However, as vibrating alert has been confirmed as a feature on the soon-to-be-released Verizon CDMA iPhone4, the speculation does nothing more than whet the appetite.
The biggest doubt over the claims made by analysts is the mini USB port, given that all Apple’s other iOS devices have been designed for dock connectors. However, since regulations to convert mobile phones to USB-only ports were passed in Europe, Apple executives may decide the new iPad should follow suit – perhaps an indication that all mobile multi-media devices will be fitted with universal USB ports in the future rather than docking stations.
In the last few weeks, parts vendors have been a major source of leaks regarding the much anticipated iPad and with Goldman Sachs analysts stirring the debate it only serves to arouse the curiosity of would-be consumers. Or is the intention to stir the pockets of would-be investors?
|
Similar / Related Articles:
|
