Apple to Launch Two Next Generation iPads in January 2012

Apple will reportedly launch two new iPad versions, both with 9.7 inch displays, at the iWorld on January 26, 2012.

According to Digitime sources, apple will continue to market its iPad 2 at a reduced price, as a competitor to Amazon's Kindle Fire at the low end of the market.

The two new iPad models will feature quad core processors and QXGA resolution (1,536x2,048 pixels) displays. They will target the medium and high ends of the market.

Sharp, LG Display and Samsung are all three in the display supply chain.

Despite its raging patent war against Samsung, Apple has also contracted with the Korean giant for supply of A6 quad-core processors and 5 MP CMOS image sensor (CIS) for the iPads. The 5 MP CIS will go into the medium end device, while Apple's flagship iPad will feature a 8 MP CIS from Sony, sources tell Digitimes.

The standout feature of the new iPads will be long battery life, based on an astounding 14,000 milliampere-hour (mAh) battery to be supplied by Simplo Technology and Dynapack International Technology.

The Digitimes report confirms an earlier BGR report that Wedge Partners analyst Brian Blair had told clients in a note that Apple will be sticking with a 9.7-inch panel for next generation iPads.

"Don't expect a 7-incher. While we believe Apple has tested 7-inch screen prototypes for over a year, we don't currently expect the company to release anything in the 7-inch size in 2012," Blair wrote in the note on December 23, 2011.