Next generation device expected to drive total iPad shipments to 70m in 2012.
The tech world will wait with bated breath tonight as Apple holds a conference in San Francisco, which is expected to reveal the iPad 3, or alternatively, the iPad HD.
The firm held a 62 per cent share of the tablet market in 2011, which will grow to 70 per cent in 2012 when the iPad 3 is released, according to IMS Research.
The UK-based analyst says the iPad 3 will lead total iPad shipments to around 70 million, creating a 71 per cent year-on-year rise.
Apple's next-gen tablet is expected to include a quad-core processor, retina display, 8MP camera and 4G connectivity, which is what IMS says will help leave competition behind, despite an estimated price tag of $549.
Gerry Xu, PC market analyst, IMS Research, says: "There is a large customer base loyal to Apple products that have been waiting for the latest tablet. Many owners of the iPad 1 are also expected to upgrade to the latest release. In addition to this consumer demand, growth is also forecast as a result of sales into enterprise and education."

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