The latest rumor about the highly anticipated iOS device from Apple, Inc. (NYSE:AAPL) is that it will be sporting an 8-megapixel camera similar to the iPhone 4S's, according to the Chinese blog Apple Daily.

One of the drawbacks of the previous generation of iPad is its camera, one of the few features where Apple's tablet lagged behind its competitors. However, there are leaked photos that suggest that the iPad 3 will be improving the device's lens.

Tech blog Ars Technica also noted that the pictures show an opening that is similar on the latest iPhone. However, there are speculations that these new sensors may affect the pricing of the device.

Apple Daily is a tabloid-style newspaper that tracks new MacBook models. However, the photos may turn out to be fake as Apple neither confirmed nor denied all of the rumors about its latest tablet.

No Major Changes on iPad 3's Front Glass and Digitizer

There are no major changes in the leaked photos of the front glass and digitizer of the next generation of iPad. Based on the leaked photos, the public was able to confirm the following information:

  • iPad 3 will look like iPad 2.
  • iPad 3 will be sporting a 2048x1536 Retina Display.
  • iPad 3 will have a more tapered back casing.
  • iPad 3 will have a slightly thicker design compared to previous generations.
  • iPad 3 will be powered by Apple's improved A5X system on the chip.

Apple.pro first showed the leaked photos of what it claimed to be the front glass and digitizer of the new iPad 3.

According to MacRumors, the photo of the front glass is quite similar with that of iPad 2's. The main distinguishing feature of the part is the relatively long ribbon cable extending up the side of the display as opposed to a shorter cable with a sideways orientation seen in the iPad 2. Some of the other features of iPad 3 are same round home button seen in all iOS devices so far and a hole in the top bezel to accommodate both the front-facing camera and the ambient light sensor.

Although the photo may turn out to be fake, it is striking to see supposed parts of the iPad 3 leaking that seem to strengthen the rumored release of the new generation of iPad on the first week of March.

Release Date

There is a new rumor that Apple will release the next generation of iPad in Germany on March 23.

Although it is almost certain that Apple is bound to unveil its latest iPad on March 7, the guessing game of when iPad 3 will be available to consumers who would like to get their hands on the device.

Last year, Apple unveiled the second generation of iPad on March 2. It was made available in the U.S. on March 11 and had an international release in UK and Germany as well as 23 other countries on March 25.

If the same schedule is followed this year, it is speculated that the device will be released in the U.S. on March 16 and have an international release on March 30.