What The iPad 4 Tells Us About The iPad 5

People were in an uproar. "How could they replace my iPad after only 6 months?"

But upon further inspection, it's clear that the newest iPad is an update, not an upgrade. A faster processor and a better FaceTime camera. That's pretty much it. While these improvements are welcome, they're certainly not enough to warrant an upgrade from the previous model.

So why was Apple so quick to introduce a new model? Why are they clearing out the 6 month old "new" iPad for $380 bucks?

Perhaps, iPad 4 has more to do with iPad 5.

Previous iPads were introduced during the Spring. Now that they have a new model, they can wait until Summer, at least. I'm anticipating a new refined design, both, in software and hardware. Expect the iPad 5 to be thinner, which seems to be Apple's latest modus operandi. iPad 5 will have a laminated screen, leading to a sleeker, more svelte appearance.

But aside from exterior aesthetics, I think the next round of iOS devices will feature a reimagined OS. This is more than just the recent promotion of Jony Ive as the head of software interface; I'm expecting a complete re-thinking of iOS. As Microsoft tries to position it's Surface device as a work machine, Apple has a real opportunity to beat them to the punch. An iPad that is as much about work, as it is play, would take the device to next level.

It's fun to speculate.