iPad 3 may be thicker, still support iPad 2 Smart Covers
updated 05:20 pm EST, Wed December 7, 2011
Size could be necessary for new tech
The iPad 3 will be thicker, claim "Asian intelligence sources" cited by Macotakara. The change will allegedly render cases fitting the back of an iPad 2 useless. The front of the 3 is expected to remain largely the same though according to a parts supplier, to the extent that Smart Covers made for the iPad 2 will still function.
Making the iPad 3 thicker would be an unusual reversal for Apple, which has gone to extreme lengths to make iOS devices thinner. The issue is particularly significant for iPads, since a complaint about the iPad 1 was that the device was too heavy to hold for extended periods of time. A thicker design might be necessary for some elements though; the iPad 3 is believed to be getting a quad-core processor and a 2048x1536 display, and possibly an LTE receiver.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Aug 2010
Hmm
Does anyone else know why Electronista said "Asian intelligence sources" with the quotes? It's because these "intelligence sources" are actually really dumb. The iPad 3 will not be any thicker. These sources must be used to the performance of Samsung, etc. who constantly compromise on the integrity and aesthetics of their products.