Got yourself a shiny New iPad today? Then start the clock. We’ve done some number crunching, and based on Apple’s upgrade cycles you’ll be lusting after the iPad 4 in less than a year. On a Thursday, to be precise.
Apple waited just 301 days after the launch of the original iPad to roll out the second generation iPad 2. The gap between that model and the on-sale date of the New iPad, or 3rd generation today, was slightly longer, at 357 days. But that’s just UK release dates, we should factor in the American release dates too.
The original Wi-Fi-only iPad was released to US owners on April 3 2010, almost a month before Apple followed up with the 3G-enabled version. Its second generation cousin followed 342 days later. The 3rd generation New iPad smashed its way into stores 371 days later.
Average out those release cycles, and you can expect to wait 342.75 days before handing over cash for the next iPad upgrade. Maybe you should start queueing now. If you’ve got your diary handy, the date to mark is Thursday February 21st 2013. See you at the Apple Store.
What next? Ultra-early iPad 4 predictions
- Siri. Apple’s virtual assistant makes the jump to tablets. By now he/she can re-order your weekly groceries and book tickets to events through iTunes. Still struggles with Scottish accents.
- Thinner, lighter. New battery tech, and more efficient graphics mean the same grunt with less girth. At last, an iPad you can hold for hours in one hand.
- NFC. Apple’s next iPad uses NFC to grab photos from an iPhone 5, and acts as a ‘check-in’ agent at events, recognising those digital tickets Siri bought for you.
- 4G LTE that actually works in the UK.
- All-gesutre controls. Apple finally fulfils Steve Jobs’ last wish: a product completely devoid of irksome physical keys.
