Rumour: the iPad 2 to come in WiFi, UMTS and CDMA versions

With it appearing highly likely that a CDMA iPhone will be released for Verizon Wireless, we can therefore count on a CDMA iPad 2 as well.

Rumours have once again come from Taiwan that a future iPad 2 tablet is under development, with leaks coming out from component suppliers. Three types of tablet should soon be unveiled: WiFi only, WiFi/UMTS and WiFi/CDMA.

Mass production of these devices could begin in mid-January 2011 with a first batch of 500 000 units being made up from the three models. According to the same sources, there is strong demand for 3G models of the tablet, with 60 to 65% of all models currently delivered coming with this connectivity option.


Transitioning between version 1 and version 2
Users prefer having a tablet that is capable of connecting to mobile networks from anywhere (with the 3G model also coming with GPS capability, unlike the WiFi model, which could also influence users choices) and Apple are working directly with carriers to respond to this demand.

According to the same sources, Apple is reworking the screen to improve anti-reflection and anti-trace aspects when compared to the first model. According to information provided by suppliers, Apple will sell 16 million iPad tablets in 2010, with 2 to 3 million units currently being held in stock throughout the distribution channel. These devices will help in the transition before the iPad 2 tablet is released at the end of the first quarter or beginning of the second of 2011.

Estimations also have it that 40 million iPad 2 tablets could be sold next year, with this volume representing between 65 and 75% of all tactile tablets produced in 2011.