The closer we get to an expected Apple event in March to introduce the iPad 3 tablet the more leaks there are emerging. Today we have further news on the iPad 3 as what purports to be the first image of the next iPad has emerged.

Previously we had thought that cosmetically at least the iPad 3 would not differ too much in appearance to the iPad 2 and these new images show that the designs are very similar although there are some subtle differences. For example on the rear to the edges there appears to be a more gradual taper and the new image also seems to show the 8-megapixel camera that has been widely rumored.

You can see that first image below, courtesy of Hong Kong-based newspaper, Apple Daily, and it was brought to our attention by BGR. The same newspaper also confirmed that a Retina Display is included on the iPad 3. We have spoken of rumors of a Retina Display previously but this report a couple of days ago seems to make it a done deal as the site claims to have its hands on an actual display and has measured the resolution.

IBT reports on the ‘confirmed’ Retina Display and has also come up with a list of other confirmed features for the iPad 3, although how much of this is known fact and how much conjecture is hard to tell. IBT includes the Siri voice assistant as on the iPhone 4S, an improved camera (seemingly confirmed by the image as long as it’s genuine), faster processor (quad-core questionable as in this recent report but could still be a faster dual-core), 4G LTE and an improved battery. IBT backs up these confirmed features with various reports and it makes for interesting reading even though the news is still not official.

It’s not too much longer now though until that expected early March event when we may actually see the next iPad revealed in all its glory and the speculation will finally stop. You can bet we’ll be keeping in touch with all the rumors and news before and after the announcement so check back with us. What are your thoughts on this apparent first image of the iPad 3? Do you hope that this is the real deal or would you have preferred something that looked different? Let us know with your comments.

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Tags: iOS, iPad 3