iPad 3 Aluminum Chassis Leaked

A number of iPad 3 back shells have been photographed in China and subsequently leaked on the web for everyone to see and compare with the iPad 2 version.

Not much has changed, as this high-res photo on the left shows, but the manufacturers reportedly say there is a bigger hole for the camera module on the iPad 3.

Apple’s next-generation tablet computer will not only boast a better camera, but also a more powerful processor and a Retina display, most analysts agree.

The image reportedly stems from a Chinese supplier who makes a living by providing parts to iPad repair shops worldwide.

Not long after this leak, a second one emerged - via Apple.pro. This blog has single-handedly leaked more iPhone and iPad prototype cases than any other source in China.

As Apple is gearing up to announce a product refresh, it is a common occurrence to see parts like these flying around, not to mention getting photographed and then reported on by the tech blogosphere.

In fact, it has become a tradition over the years - especially when it comes to the iPad.

While Apple is doing a fairly good job at keeping a tight lid on its iPhone plans, the same thing cannot be said about the company’s iPad business.

Such leaks occurred when the iPad 1 was launched in 2010, and they continued to 2011 when the iPad 2 was unveiled. This year, history is repeating itself, it seems.

Unfortunately, for those who were hoping Apple would redesign the tablet, it appears the iPad 3 will be pretty much identical to the current-generation model in terms of form factor.

In fact, according to Apple.pro, the iPad 3 will also have magnets to support the iPad 2 Smart Cover. It looks like we’ll have to wait another year for a major redesign.

Posted in: News, Preview, Tablet