Apple to Release Fourth Generation iPad in Under A Year?

Apple could be releasing the next-generation iPad as early as the end of this year, according to a report.

iLounge stated that Apple plans on making a few minor tweaks to the current version, including giving it a smaller dock connector and thinner design.

"Apples current plan for the fourth-generation iPad is to release another relatively modest body tweak, which would keep the shape basically the same while introducing the new small Dock Connector, a rear side microphone, and spec-improving/heat-reducing changes to the hardware inside," said iLounge regarding the tablet.

It was also reported that a rear side microphone could be added by Apple to aid in noise cancellation and improve audio quality during rear video recording. It will be identical to the side mic included in the next generation iPhone.

This new iPad could be unveiled alongside the iPad Mini and next-generation iPhone in the fall, however, the official release date is still up in the air as Apple launching a new version of the tablet that soon would anger customers who just purchased the third-generation model.

It will most likely be released sometime in the beginning of next year, according to iLounge.

Apple is also expected to unveil the new iPhone and iPad Mini at an event rumored to take place on Sept. 12. The iPhone is expected to be available for customers on Sept. 21 and will feature a larger screen, LTE, faster processer, and iOS 6.

The iPad Mini will be a smaller version of the iPad created to compete with other 7-inch tablets in the market including the Google Nexus 7 and Amazon Kindle Fire. That device should also feature a faster processor, HD display, and iOS 6 when it is launched.