Apple might not debut the iPad 3 this fall, but it's possible it will launch a new version of the iPad 2 dubbed "iPad 2 Plus," the International Business Times is reporting.
In a note to investors, FBR Capital Markets analyst Craig Berger said evidence, such as requests to component suppliers, indicates that Apple will introduce this "marginally different device" in late 2011. Berger said a production schedule has not been determined, but that Apple has asked component makers for quotes on parts for the iPad 2 Plus.
Apple didn't upgrade the display of the second-gen iPad, but this rumored intermediate device could have a higher resolution. The company will reportedly increase the iPad 2's pixel density from 132 pixels per inch (ppi) to between 250 and 300 ppi for the iPad 2 Plus, Berger predicted.
Berger, however, admitted he isn't certain this report is true.
"While we find this new commentary interesting, we await more confirming data points from other supply chain contacts before fully believing a new iPad device is coming in 2011," he said.
The rumors of an additional iPad in 2011 started even before the iPad 2 was launched in March. Regardless of their veracity, there is buzz that Apple could be stepping up iPad shipments in the coming months. Citing sources in Apple's supply chain, Digitimes said earlier this week that Apple shipped 5 million touch panels in June and is expected to ship an additional five million in July.
Apple will report second quarter results on July 19, and it's estimated that the company will report that it sold 7 million to 9 million iPads. Curiously enough, Apple iPad sales slipped in the first quarter, the same period the iPad 2 went on sale, from 7.33 million to 4.69 million. It's rumored that Apple was unable to keep up with hot demand for the device and was adversely affected by a shortage of touch-screen panels caused by the March earthquake in Japan. But if recent rumors of increased production or even an additional iPad are true, Apple could be making a new push to sell more iPads in the future.