Apple could be unveiling the second-generation iPad at a small, closed developer's event next week, according to reports.
Citing sources from the accessories business, MacNotes.de claims Apple is unveiling the second-generation iPad next week, during a launch event of iOS 4.3 for the AT&T iPhone. However as PC Mag noted earlier, leaks from accessory makers should be treated with a grain of salt.
Meanwhile Japanese tech blog macotakara.jp, citing no one in particular, also claimed that Apple was holding a "small event" to introduce the second-generation iPad. The event wouldn't take place until the end of the Lunar New Year on February 17, however, as most of Apple's suppliers and manufacturers in Asia were off for the holiday. Makotakara also said Apple was launching the tablet in March.
Unless all these publications are talking to the same person, these rumors seem to confirm a report in January. 9To5 Mac discovered that after uploading iOS 4.3 beta, which Apple released in January to developers, its iCalendar automatically flipped to February 9th. The blogosphere was suddenly filled with rumors of a February 9th announcement for the iPad 2.
A beta version of iOS 4.3 was released to developers at the end of January. Most reports say a full release won't be available until March.
Separately there were plenty of other alleged iPad 2 sightings last week to satisfy the even most eager iPad 2 beaver, from sightings of the screen to a patent for a stylus to front- and rear- facing cameras; even the tablet itself was supposedly spotted at the launch of Rupert Murdoch's Daily app on Wednesday.