iPad 5 release date optimistically pegged for March

The iPad 5 release date is apparently set for March 2013 according to one optimistic inside source.

Talking to Japanese site Macotakara, the source, whose connection with the Cupertino-based firm is unknown, suggested the next Apple tablet could arrive relatively early into next year sporting a new design.

The iPad 5 will take its design cues from the iPad mini and Apple will work on making it thinner and lighter.

Why so soon?

Hopefully this is true as we were rather disappointed with the size and weight increase that came with the iPad 3 and Apple decided not to reduce either with the iPad 4.

This isn't the first insider to predict an early arrival for the iPad 5, with an analyst already hinting that the next super slim slate could be on its way sooner rather than later.

Although the March date did seem likely at first, as it follows on nearly a year from the launch of the iPad 3 back in February 2012, the surprise announcement of the iPad 4 at the iPad mini event has thrown the Apple product cycle into a bit of a spin.

We'd be surprised if even Apple had the bravado to launch three 9.7-inch tablets in the space of 12 months - and if it does, it could have a lot of angry customers on its hands.

From Macotakara via 9to5Mac