Circulating rumours are suggesting that the iPad 3 will launch during Q3 2012.
Word from the upstream supply chain indicates however, that a new-generation iPad will soon enter mass production, and is set to arrive in March.
This new iPad isn't considered to be the iPad 3 though, and apparently will debut as a refreshed iPad 2.
The unit is expected to be thinner than the current iPad 2, and deliver a longer battery life. It isn't indicated what else we can expect from the refreshed iPad 2, but if these rumours are to be believed, it will be more of an incremental update in preparation for the main event in Q3 2012.
