Rumours that Apple would introduce a third generation iPad later this year are being described as “wishful thinking and misreporting” by Digitimes sources at component manufacturers. It suggests that such a launch would cut into sales of the iPad 2 which was just introduced in March, something that Apple is obviously keen to avoid.
Should Apple decide to release an iPad 3 this year, Digitimes suggests that it would be an upgraded iPad 2 version (isn’t that what the iPad 2 is?) or perhaps one sporting a different communication format (4G maybe?).
Digitimes also reveals that Apple may be looking at AMOLED or full HD standard displays in its next iPad. This project appears to be at an early stage though and it is unlikely that Apple could have products ready for later this year. As Digitimes points out, it does not help that AMOLED displays are still mostly produced by Samsung, one of Apple’s competitors in the tablet space.
It’s also worthwhile to remember that a second iPad release this year would go against Apple’s typical product lifecycle.