Apple could launch its second generation iPad as early as the fourth quarter of this year, according to Digitimes sources. The report goes on to suggest that the current 9.7-inch model could be joined by 5.6-inch and 7-inch models. Both these latter models may use OLED displays.
The new smaller models may come with OLED displays and be aimed at the ebook market (with the larger model continuing to target multimedia entertainment). Current OLED display shortages (eg, Samsung Electronics is currently unable to meet meet demand for its own handsets, let alone that of other companies.) may derail those plans.
While Apple has already sold over three million iPads, the new models would help it consolidate its lead in the tablet market at a time when new competitors are expected to start launching their devices. It would also put additional pressure on other ebook readers (like the Amazon Kindle and Barnes & Noble nook).
While I’m sure that Apple is considering different-sized tablets to complement the current one, I think it is more likely that we will see these in 2011 rather than this year. Unless sales start to drop off dramatically before then…