A lot of people have played down the question “What will the next iPad look like?” Well, thanks to Apple itself we don’t have to wait that long to know the answer. According to a patent filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (under serial number 228282), the Cupertino giant is planning to refresh the design of its highly popular iPad tablet lineup. The slate, which has become an industry standard in terms of look and feel, is expected to show off a slightly updated design, with a more boxy shape, and a better front-to-back alignment.Â
We’re guessing that the body of this futuristic device will be constructed of durable high quality materials, possibly aluminum, or some sort of a light and strong type of  plastic (maybe polycarbonate). In addition, as tablets improve, we are happy to learn that Apple is planning to change the rear facing camera location, as well as adding a new heat baffle, for the processor so it can exhaust the heat, and either backside, or alternatively, a full edge speaker.
At this point, there’s no way we can tell if the changes will take effect immediately or at some time in the future. But one thing for sure, there’s plenty to be waiting for.
[via patentlyapple]
