iPad 3 Release: ‘Leaked’ Back Panel Component Sparks Larger Battery, Updated Camera Rumors

A leaked photo purportedly showing the Apple iPad 3's back panel has hinted at a larger battery.

The Web site RepairLabs.com, which posted the "leaked" back panel pictures, compared them with the iPad 2 and suggested several changes users can expect when the new model arrives sometime this year.

Their analysis suggested the new design hints at a larger battery, a new LCD, and a modified camera.

And good news for Apple watchers, as the repair site's anonymous source claimed the new back panel showed the iPad 3 would be no thicker than the iPad 2.

Earlier Wednesday it emerged that analysts were predicting a later than expected worldwide launch date for the iPad 3 in April, adding that a current trademark lawsuit in China may delay release there for the foreseeable future.

It also emerged the next iPad may be far less than the technological quantum leap Apple-watchers hope for, and more of an upgrade in the manner of the iPhone 4s.