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Apple's next generation iPad will be released within the next three to four months, according to reports.

Quoting sources, DigiTimes claims that Apple's manufacturing partners have now started delivering parts and components for the iPad 3 to OEM contractors, while simultaneously reducing the parts made for iPad 2.

A source is quoted as saying: "OEM production of iPad 2 will remain high at 14-15 million units in the fourth quarter of 2011 but decline to 4-5 million units in the first quarter of 2012, paving the way for the launch of the new iPads."

China's Commercial Times has reported that Foxconn Electronics will start making the new iPads in January 2012, ahead of large-scale production in February.

Rumours suggest the new iPad will be slightly thicker than the current model, and that it was feature a high-resolution screen with a Retina Display function.

However, it should still features Apple's trademark curved edges - a particular obsession of ex-CEO Steve Jobs - thus making it compatible with the company's Smart Covers.

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