According to sources, it seems we can expect three models of the iPad 2. It is believed the models will support Wi-Fi with some also supporting either UMTS or CDMA. Verizon Wireless, which utilizes CDMA technology, began selling Wi-Fi versions of the iPad this year accompanied by MiFi devices to allow the iPad to be utilized on their cellular data network in the absence of a CDMA version. In comparison, AT&T offers the 3G version of the iPad since it is built for use on their network, in addition to the iPhone.
It seems Apple hopes the ability for the iPad 2 to connect to more than one type of wireless network will help meet the demand that Apple is currently seeing with 3G versions of the original iPad. Currently, 60%-65% of iPad shipments are 3G models. Apple also plans for anti-smudge and anti-reflective treatments for the iPad 2 to allow it to better compete with the Kindle.
Mass production of the iPad 2 models are expected to begin in the second half of January 2011 with Apple shipping 500k-530k of its units to its channels by the end of the month. An official launch of the iPad 2 is expected to occur by the end of the first quarter or the beginning of the second. Production of the original iPad is expected to stop after January with 2-3 million units rolling over into the new year from 2010.
Based on the success of the original iPad, Apple is planning an agressive push of the iPad 2 with 40 million units expected to ship in 2011. Those shipments will account for 65%-75% of the tablet PC market. [Geek]
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