iOS 5.1 was released to developers last night, and buried within were signs of two new iPad models – one numbered 3,3, and another 2,4.
Though the details really end there, a separate source is indicating Apple has locked down production on 10-inch 2048 x 1536 displays. Richard Shim, an analyst with DisplaySearch has claimed to confirm Samsung, Sharp, and LGD are all working on the QXGA screens, with proper devices being done next month, shipping to stores in January, and mass production ramping up in February and March. What about that second iPad? Well, Shim says Apple’s working on a 7.85-inch tablet, launching later in 2012 to compete with the smaller tablets that have spawned in the iPad’s wake.
If Apple could squeeze out a cheaper, smaller iPad alongside a top-tier one that blows its predecessor out of the water within a similar time frame, they’ll have a solid defense against tablets that are gradually catching up. 2048 x 1536 is a ridonculous resolution that works out to about 256 pixels per inch. Right now, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 is providing a 1280 x 800 touchscreen, which really wouldn’t stand a chance against such an iPad 3.
Of course, this is all rumours and hearsay for the time being, but damn, wouldn’t it be nice if this rumour panned out?
[via 9to5Mac]