Part Listings From Griffin, Belkin Suggest "iPad HD," Not "iPad 3"
by Joe White
March 2, 2012
Though countless information on the third-generation iPad has hit the Web, there is still one thing about the next-generation iPad that we're quite unsure of: its name.
For as long as I can remember, we've been calling the upcoming device the iPad 3 (though someone, I'm sure, will have thrown the name "iPad 2S" around at some point). Indeed, "iPad 3" is the logical name for Apple's next iPad device - the original iPad was followed by the iPad 2, and so most of us are expecting the iPad 3 to succeed the iPad 2.
However, Gizmodo would appear to disagree. After having gained part listings from iOS device accessory manufacturers, Griffin and Belkin, the website claims Apple's next-generation iPad might be called the "iPad HD."
Here's a screenshot of those part listings, which clearly refer to the upcoming iPad as the iPad HD:
Apple's next-generation iPad is set to feature a Retina display, according to numerous reports, explaining why a name like "iPad HD" is indeed plausible. Such a name is potentially more likely if Apple's upcoming iPad is set to include few other improvements - if, for example, the Retina display is the tablet's main selling point. Back in 2010, the Retina display launched with the iPhone 4 - not with an "iPhone HD." However, Apple's fourth-generation iPhone included a number of other improvements besides the Retina display, potentially explaining its all-new name.
As with every iOS device-related rumor, we're not going to know anything for certain until it's announced by Apple. The iPad 3's special event is scheduled for March 7, so be sure to check back with us - we'll have all the information right here!