The rumor mill for the next-generation iPad started churning just after the launch of the iPad 4 in October 2012 and many speculations have already been made regarding the hardware specifications. Recently, a leaked image of the front panel of the next-version has surfaced online, which shows that the iPad 5 will have thinner bezels just like its smaller sibling, the iPad mini.
French blog Nowhereelse posted an image of the front panel of the iPad 5 which has narrower side bezels and a compact design when compared to the iPad 4.
Apple launched the iPad 4 in October 2012 and announced the iPad 3 in March 2012, within just months of each other. It seems that Apple will be refreshing its iPad models on a bi-yearly cycle and various rumors suggest that the iPad 5 will launch sooner than expected.
The new iPad 5 is expected to be lighter and thinner than the iPad 4. The iPad 4 features Apple's custom A6X processor and the Lightning connector but retained the same design as the iPad 3. However, it seems that the iPad 5 will have a refreshed design as well as improved hardware specifications.
The iPad 5 is expected to have an even faster processor (likely A7), a better camera, improved operating system (probably iOS 7) and more to attract customers.
The iPad still retains the crown in the highly competitive tablet market. However, to retain the top position, Apple will have to enhance the current models with better hardware and an even more impressive exterior. If the next-generation iPad is thinner, faster and has a better display, then undoubtedly iPads will continue to rule the tablet industry.
