The next generation of Apple's
Taiwan's DigiTimes is reporting that component makers in that country have been told that the new iPad model could ship its first 400,000 to 600,000 units as early as late February.
If it's true, you certainly won't hear Apple confirming the report. It's just bad business to pre-announce the impending obsolescence of a hot-selling product. Apple is selling more than a million iPads a month, and that figure is bound to spike given this month's boost from holiday sales.
The last thing Apple wants is for Timmy to scratch an iPad off his list because he knows that a better version may be just two months away.
Then again, we probably should have seen this coming. Apple has accustomed fans to annual updates, and we're closing in on the early April anniversary of the original Wi-Fi-based iPad's debut.
Will the new iPad offer a digital camera for snapshots and FaceTime video chatting? Will Apple offer a card slot for easier incorporation of photos, videos, and productivity files? Will it come with a halo-wearing Steve Jobs bobblehead doll? There's certainly plenty of room to grow over the years.
A refreshed iPad may be just what Apple needs to hold back the competition. Research In Motion
In other words, the next few months are about to get pretty competitive. Apple's early lead is huge. It remains the tablet to top. However, if it is in fact rushing out iPad 2 before the original blows out its first birthday candle, it's a good indicator that Apple sees something in the competitive landscape that it wants to snuff out before it hurts.
If Timmy still wants the iPad, cave in. They're awesome. However, don't be surprised if you're kicking yourself when a better model comes out in two months with what will likely be a similar price point.
What do you think of Apple's iPad? Do you own one or will you be getting one for the holidays? Share your thoughts in the comments box below.