Numerous previous reports have suggested that Apple may release a revamped version of the third-generation iPad tomorrow alongside the announcement of the iPad Mini. A new report from 9to5Mac provides additional confirmation for that rumor.
Apple will announce a refreshed version of its full-sized, 9.7-inch Retina display iPad at its media event October 23rd, according to our sources. These people say that the new version of the iPad will retain the same $499, $599, and $699 WiFi-only price points, and the LTE line will retain the current $629, $729, and $829 pricing. With no price changes or additional storage capacities, we believe that the storage options of 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB will also be retained.
[…] this new iPad is said to be a tweaked model and not a complete revamp. As iMore and iLounge previously reported, we expect this new iPad to gain the smaller Lightning connector […] Also likely in the mix for this tweaked iPad is global LTE support, just like in the iPhone 5 […] Apple could also use this opportunity to upgrade other internals like the processor, screen, battery, etc. but we don’t yet have specifics on this.
Considering that several reports have surfaced on this claim, many from largely credible sources, I’d wager that this is likely. As for the presumed 4th-generation of the iPad, which would launch early next year if Apple sticks to their current cycle, it’s unlikely that this retooled 3rd-gen iPad would affect that release.
The revamped iPad is not expected to be a complete redesign or an all-new iPad, but rather a modestly improved 3rd-gen iPad, which will be released with little fanfare, and mostly intended to finish bringing Apple’s new Lightning connector to their entire current lineup of iOS devices.
Apple’s media event officially kicks off tomorrow, Tuesday October 23, at 10:00 am PT. Apple is widely expected to unveil the iPad Mini at the event, as well as iTunes 11, new iMacs, Mac Minis, and a 13-inch version of the Retina MacBook Pro.
Stay tuned to MacTrast for the latest coverage!
