Apple: More iPad 2 rumors rolling in along with possible release date

Considered by many as responsible for the large tablet market boom, Apple’s iPad was the first big name tablet to hit the market. But of course, Apple isn’t one to stick to just one version of a product, and rumors keep coming in about the much anticipated iPad 2.

According to a report by iLounge, a previously accurate source has provided them with some preliminary but interesting details. According to the source, the iPad 2 will feature a carbon fiber frame instead of the usual Apple aluminum. The new frame is supported by the fact that Apple has already applied for a patent for the carbon fiber frame. The new material is being tested by Apple but they may decide to stick with the regular aluminum instead.

The source also indicated that Apple is working on certain NFC/RFID accessories to communicate with the new iPads and iPhones. This doesn’t come as a big surprise as much ado has been made about the new iPads featuring a near-field communication chip and accessories are the next logical step.

Lastly, the source indicates that the new iPad might come in a 7” version, which is surprising as iPad has gone on record and stated the 7” form-factor is a bad idea. However, the source reports that Apple has approached a manufacturer to develop these screens.

Since the iPad 2 doesn’t even officially exist, no release date can be known obviously. However, a Japanese blog is reporting that March matches Foxconn’s production schedules, so the iPad could be released as soon as then. While all rumors should be taken with a grain of salt, this same Japanese blog managed to leak details of the iPad 2’s case.

As the year goes on, expect more and more iPad 2 rumors to surface and we’ll have to hold our breath till then. We’re hoping the scheduled iOS event later this week will feature some official word about the iPad 2, but with Apple you can never know.

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