Rumor: Two New iPad 2 Models to be Released January 2012

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Every now and then, Apple rumors surface, and we take heed if only to have a glimpse of what products Apple might be planning to release in the short- and medium-term. This time, sources say that Apple will release two new iPad 2 variants, to cover the low-end, mid-range and high-end market price points.

Sources from within Apple’s supply chain claim that the company has two new iPad variants in the works, as cited by DigiTimes. According to sources, Apple will unveil these next-generation iPad tablets in time for iWorld (formerly MacWorld Expo), scheduled for January 26, 2012. But rather than release the earlier-rumored 7.85-inch iPad, the new models will be sized the same as the current 9.7-inch models.

With these rumors, it seems Amazon’s wish to compete with the iPad 2 directly has been granted. Apple will reportedly place the current iPad 2 model directly against the Kindle Fire tablet, which is currently priced at $199. Meanwhile, the newer variants will be targeted at the mid-range and higher-end markets. The new iPad 2 models will reportedly feature an QXGA resolution screen (1536×2048 pixels), dual-LED light bars for added brightness, and quad-core A6 processors manufactured by Samsung.

The tablets’ touchscreens will be supplied by Sharp, Samsung and LG Display. Meanwhile, both Samsung ad Sony will provide CMOS image sensors for the tablet’s cameras, with Sony supplying 8-megapixel variants. In terms of power, Simplo Technology and Dynapack International Technology were reported to have secured contracts for 14,000 mAh batteries for the new iPad tablets. In contrast, the current iPad 2 model features a 6,930 mAh battery.

Will we see the iPad 2′s price drop to $199? If sources are correct, then Apple might want to protect its market share in the lower-end of the market with such a move. Meanwhile, higher-end users will be happy with better specs and longer battery life for the reported two new iPad 2 variants. Analysts have earlier speculated on the possibility that Apple might release three new iPad variants, although in terms of nomenclature (iPad 3, iPad 2S, budget iPad), things are still hazy at this point.