The iPad Air release date is set to launch in the third quarter of this year alongside the iPad Mini 3, according to KGI Securities analysts Ming-Chi Kuo.

Now, new report from the Korean Web site, ET News further supports the claim. According to the latest report, Apple will start mass production for the next-generation iPad Air display parts this month, while other fundamental parts like the camera module will kick into production next month.

According to reports, the iPad Air 2 will not be unveiled with dramatic design overhaul. Most likely, the Apple tablet will boast a 9.7 inches display with nearly identical form factor to its predecessor, with a number of marginal changes in the internal specs. The revamped iPad Air 2 will boast the same resolution at 2048 x 1536 pixels or 264 ppi and nearly identical thickness and weight as its predecessor.

The Cupertino, California-based tech giant is reportedly giving the iPad Air 2 an improved processor and camera performance. The device is expected to house the next generation A8 processor of Apple for improved battery life. The main camera of the iPad Air 2 will get a boost from 5 MP to 8 MP and the front camera will be upgraded from 1.2 MP to 1.5 MP.

Taking cues from the previous upgrades of the latest iPhone models, the iPad Air 2 and the iPad Mini 3 are both expected to launch with Touch ID fingerprint scanners.

"We previously thought Apple would not release a new version of the iPad mini this year, but now we think Apple will launch an upgraded version with the same form factor, A8 processor and Touch ID (fingerprint recognition) to boost shipments of iPad mini with Retina display," Kuo wrote and as reported by MacRumors.

Now, with the Apple season in full swing, the iPad Air 2 will most likely be released in the fall this year, as the Cupertino tech giant traditionally rolls out its new generation tablets in October.

Meanwhile, Apple's elusive and highly anticipated wearable iWatch is expected to launch in October as well, with the next generation iPhone model launches shortly preceding the launch of the iPad Air 2 and iWatch.

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