Will Apple’s next iPad come with 128GB storage?

28 Jan 2013

Rumours are spreading that an upgraded iPad model could be released soon featuring 128GB of storage – double what is currently available from the iPad range.

9to5Mac claims a source has let them in on Apple’s plans for its next iPad release. While this rumoured model is not expected to be a new generation of iPad (which is more likely to come in autumn of this year), it may feature storage capacity as yet unavailable on any iPad to date.

It has previously been reported that references in iTunes 11 and code spotted by developers in iOS 6.1 (yet to be released) indicates that a 128GB device is on the cards. Now, 9to5Mac has looked closely at some new stock-keeping units (SKUs) – unique identifiers for any distinct item for sale by a retailer.

These SKUs indicate that the upcoming iPad will be an update to the fourth-generation line with Retina display. Currently, this device is available with 16GB, 32GB or 64GB of storage, but the SKUs point to a 128GB model.

It’s also expected the iPad update will come in standard black and white colour options, as well as the choice between Wi-Fi only or Wi-Fi and cellular capabilities. Pricing information revealed by 9to5Mac also hints at higher storage capacity, starting at US$799 for Wi-Fi only and US$929 for the cellular model.

Elaine Burke is the host of For Tech’s Sake, a co-production from Silicon Republic and The HeadStuff Podcast Network. She was previously the editor of Silicon Republic.

editorial@siliconrepublic.com