iPad 3 May be Thinner, Lighter

By Paul Thomson :: 2:56 AM

According to reports published about recent contracts awarded for creation of iPad3 components, it is possible that the third-generation Apple tablet will be thinner and lighter than its predecessors.

According to an article in the Taiwan Economic News, two companies that are already suppliers for the current iPad have been awarded the contracts to produce batteries for the iPad 3. Simplo Technology and Dynapack International Technology will also produce a battery that has a longer service life than the iPad 2’s battery.

The thin specs and extended service life mean that this battery will cost Apple roughly 25% more to make. It is unknown at this time if that means Apple will maintain iPad pricing at or near current levels, or raise the prices to make up part of the difference.

Battery production will begin toward the end of the fourth quarter of this year, and the iPad 3 is expected to reach full production cycles sometime in the first quarter of 2012.

Given the current timing and planned production, the iPad 3 may be on store shelves at the one-year anniversary of the launch of the iPad 2.