In addition to an improved processor and more RAM, the next iPad will also feature the option for high-speed 4G LTE connectivity, The Verge reported on Tuesday, citing anonymous sources. The LTE model is expected to be available in both AT&T and Verizon models, meaning there will remain two distinct versions dedicated to each U.S. wireless carrier.
Apple is also said to be planning a third, international iPad model that will offer 3G on both CDMA and GSM networks, using a chipset similar to the world-mode one found in the iPhone 4S.
As for the processor, the new iPad will feature a dual-core "A5X" processor, editor Joshua Topolsky claims, with "more RAM" than the iPad 2. Exactly how much RAM will be added was not said.
The A5X CPU is expected to have a more powerful graphics processor, but will not be a full-fledged sixth-generation chip. Instead, it was said that a true "A6" processor will likely launch later this year with Apple's sixth-generation iPhone.
The A5X was first revealed last month in a picture that claimed to show the logic board of Apple's third-generation iPad. Subsequent rumors also alleged that the new processor will be a dual-core chip offering improvements on the A5 processor found in the iPad 2 and iPhone 4S, rather than a complete overhaul.
Finally, Tuesday's latest report also said that Apple plans to update its Apple TV set-top box with a new model that will offer 1080p high-definition out. It will also "deliver new video streaming/mirroring functionality," the report said.
Apple's next iPad and Apple TV are expected to be officially unveiled on Wednesday at a media event in San Francisco, with the most recent rumors claiming the new touchscreen tablet will be known as the "iPad HD," in a reference to its new high-resolution Retina Display. The event will kick off at 10 a.m. Pacific, 1 p.m. Eastern, and AppleInsider will have full, live coverage.
188 Comments
No more info on the mysterious B28? Looking forward to tomorrow, for sure. Glad I'm on the west coast.
If they got 2GB of RAM and a quad core chip, it would be a true laptop replacement
What a clever name - just like the 386X.
Seems like this would be a very short lived chip if they really would release a new iPad in the fall. Seems unlikely, but you never know. 1 year is the max now!
What a clever name - just like the 386X.
Actually, it is different. Isn't it X86 where the X is a placeholder for 3,4,5,6 and the 86 is the instruction set
If they got 2GB of RAM and a quad core chip, it would be a true laptop replacement
Please elaborate. What apps on an iPad3 with those specs alone would make that difference than that same app on an iPad2?