Images of leaked iPad 3 components directly off of the factory floor reveal that the internal components of Apple’s third generation tablet are significantly different from those in their first and second gen devices. The design, however, looks to remain the same. (Images courtesy of Cult of Mac.)
The image above shows a flex cable which includes the sleep/wake button, the volume buttons, and the mute switch. Below is the same component from the iPad 2. Both feature differing designs, but the button layouts remain the same.
Below is the iPad 3’s microphone. Again, it is different from the iPad 2’s mic, with a completely different connector.
The Wi-Fi components for the new device show the biggest difference between the iPad 3 and iPad 2 internal components. The photo below shows a huge difference between the two.
The next image shows screw holes on the left-hand side of the case, which are laid out differently than the iPad 2. The new rear panel seems to have a smaller space for the logic board, which allows more space for a bigger battery in the new tablet.
The image below also shows a detailed look at the camera port on the new device. The iPad 3 is expected to feature a much improved camera.
All these images give credence to reports that the iPad 3 will have a similar design to its forerunner, but have improved internals. With Apple’s A6 quad-core processor, a Retina display, and a better rear-facing camera, the 3rd-gen device is expected to be somewhat of an incremental upgrade, much like the iPhone 4S was over the iPhone 4.