Rumor: iPad 3 Coming By 2Q 2012

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The next-generation iPad is coming soon, as Apple might be already placing orders from manufacturers in Asia. Estimates have been moved back a bit, and reports now say we might be able to get our hands on an iPad 3 by second quarter of 2012.

Rumors about the next-generation devices from Apple spring up every so often, with news of the so-called iPad 3 and iPad 5 being triggered by either leaks, supplier actions, accessory prototypes, and the like. The latest news comes from sources cited by DigiTimes, which are reported to be affiliated with Foxconn Electronics.

DigiTimes cites Chinese-language Commercial Times, which in turn quoted Citigroup analyst Kevin Chang, who said Foxconn is geared to produce next-generation iPads by January, and will increase production scale by February. Apple’s suppliers are expected to produce 9.5 to 9.8 million iPad 3 units in the first quarter of 2012.

OEM contractors in China are reportedly reducing their orders of parts intended for the iPad 2, as preparations for a newer model iPad are underway. Apple is expected to ship 14 to 15 million iPad 2 units by Q4 2011, but is expected to reduce these to 4 to 5 million in the first quarter of 2012, to give way to production of a newer model.

Sources likewise estimate iPad sales to be 25.06 million in the first three quarters of 2011, totaling 40 million by end of 2011. Given Apple’s historical sales figures for the iPad, analysts expect a similar trend this coming year.

Citigroup has previously estimated a February 2012 launch and release for Apple’s next-generation iPad, although these estimates are likely being adjusted due to more definitive movements and production changes from within Apple’s tightly-controlled supply chain.