iPad 2 Rumors Gaining Momentum

After several tech writers attacked the iPad and proposed changes for the next version, it would appear Apple has listened.  According to a Japanese blog, some details about the rumored iPad 2 have surfaced.

New features may include:

A flat back: Users of the iPad have complained that the rounded back make the device impractical for use on flat surfaces.  The second generation iPad is said to have a more flat back, like the iPhone 4.

A wide range speaker: The new device is said to have a wide range speaker in the bottom right corner of the back, giving high quality sound to those who want to watch movies or play games but don’t want to use headphones.

Multiple cameras: The iPad 2 is also rumored to be equipped with multiple cameras, one front facing and one rear facing.  This would make it possible not only to snap images and video with your iPad 2, but it would allow you to video chat with friends, family and colleagues.

One thing that is said to be staying the same is the 9.7 inch screen, and the overall size of the device, however it might be thinner and lighter in order to compete more directly with super slim and light devices like Amazon’s Kindle.

The blog also stated the iPad 2 is scheduled to be shipped out in January or February, which is not in keeping with Apple’s normal habits.  Generally, Apple releases upgrades on devices 12 months after the original release date, which would put a second generation iPad release date in April of 2011.

So, it’s hard to say how valid these rumors will prove to be.  The rumors of multiple cameras and making a thinner device have been circulating for quite awhile, and they make sense, as does this new rumor about a flat back.  So, I could see Apple making these changes, simply as a response to consumer needs.  Apple loves to release a device, then see how people use it, and adapt.  They did it with the iPod, they’ve done it with the iPhone, and they’ll do it with the iPad.

For me, I think I’ll need to see a third or fourth generation iPad before I understand the usefulness of these devices.  I mean, don’t get me wrong, I love Apple.  I have my iPhone and my Mac at home, but I kind of feel like the Motorola ad is right.  It’s just a giant iPhone.  And why would I want that, when my iPhone is so much more portable?

Anyway, 2011 is sure to be a big year for Apple and iPad fans.  And most people speculate that a new iPad will be out at the first part of the year, so if you’re thinking of getting one for Christmas, you may want to wait and see what the not too distant future holds for the iPad.

December 23, 2010