Internet rumours are suggesting that Apple is currently putting the final touches to preparations for the eagerly-awaited launch of the iPad 3, which is apparently set to go on sale in March.
Technology blog All ThingsD, for example, has claimed that the launch event for the iPad 3 will be held in the first week of March. And if those rumours are to be believed, it is expected that the third generation Apple tablet will go on sale a week or so later.
Speculation regarding the launch date follows shortly after a photo that appeared to show the back of the next iPad leaked on the internet. Although it was difficult to draw too many ideas about the features that would distinguish the device from its predecessor, the photograph has been taken as proof that the tablet had already entered production.
And, quite predictably, this has ignited rumours about all aspects of the iPad 3. The New York Times, for instance, has speculated that the new handheld device will boast the same proportions, but with an impressive new screen. Indeed, the news source asserted that the iPad 3 will feature a screen that is double the resolution of that attached to the iPad 2. The new device is expected to be powered by an A6 chip, while the iPad 2 is powered by the A5.
Looking forward to the next few weeks, the NextWeb speculated: "Apple's pre-event weeks are often spent soliciting demonstrations from many app developers and preparing demonstrations of those apps for the live event. Our sources tell us that this selection process is continuing at an increased rate as Apple looks to finalize the lineup for the iPad 3."
Apple, of course, never announces anything before its official events, which usually serves to intensify speculation and debate surrounding the features of a new device.
Despite this, consumers will have to wait for the official event before any of the speculation is confirmed as fact. Fans will be keen to learn whether the third generation tablet will boast improved cameras, or Siri - Apple's voice-controlled personal assistant.