The next generation of the iPad may be hitting shelves sooner than expected.
According to a report out Tuesday from Bloomberg, two anonymous sources say Apple's suppliers in Asia have started producing two new iPads.
The sources said suppliers have already begun mass production of the next-generation 9.7-inch iPad. And a new version of the 7.9-inch iPad mini is reportedly in the early stages of production. (Video via Apple)
It's unclear exactly which updates we'll see in the newest additions to the iPad family. But Apple Insider says the new models are expected to be a revision of the current hardware.
The most notable changes will reportedly include adding Apple's Touch ID fingerprint sensor and an anti-reflective screen coating to make it easier to read in the daylight. (Video via Apple)
Bloomberg's report claims the larger model, which is thought to be a follow-up to the iPad Air, will be released by the end of the third quarter or early in the fourth. And the smaller tablet will apparently hit stores by the end of the year.
These next-generation iPads could be critical to helping Apple claw its way back to the top of the tablet market.
The company was one of the founders of the tablet market as we know it today with its very first iPad. But it's seen a significant decline in sales from 2012 as larger phones have surged in popularity.
As TechTree notes, Apple reported a sharp drop in iPad shipments in the last quarter, selling 13.3 million units as opposed to the 14-15 million sales it was expecting.
But the company likely hopes the newest iPads will play a major role in boosting Apple's earnings this holiday season. Back in May, Apple's Eddy Cue had some exciting things to say about what the company has waiting in the wings.
Re/code: "We've got, you know, the best product pipeline that I've seen at Apple in my 25 years at Apple."
"Wait, the best product pipeline you've seen in 25 years?"
"That's right."
Apple has yet to comment on Bloomberg's report. But perhaps we'll hear more during a special Apple media event rumored to take place on Sept. 9.
