Apple's iPad 3 Launches into Hostile Galaxy February

New reports have emerged alleging, not only that Apple's currently fictional iPad 3 tablet will launch in February 2012, but also that it may face an updated Galaxy Tab from Samsung.

The latest iPad 3 rumour stemmed from Business Insider which claimed to have learned the tablet's release date via a research note from Citi analyst Richard Gardner. The note allegedly confirmed that Apple planned to "introduce" the new iPad in February 2012.

"According to several sources the next iPad will launch in February, and it will sport a screen with double the resolution of the current model.

"there do not appear to be any significant technical hurdles remaining to prevent a launch of a high-resolution iPad, despite rumors to the contrary," read Business Insider's report.

The new rumour appeared alongside fresh speculation that Samsung was already working to produce a new iPad-killer Galaxy Tab.

Stemming from tech rumour-mill BGR, the report suggested that, continuing its game of one-upmanship with Apple, Samsung was working on its own new tablet complete with its very own retina display.

Specifically, BGR reported that the new, unconfirmed, device would be 11.6-inches big, boasting an impressive 2560x1600 pixel resolution. "Even though the tablet features a larger display than Samsung's Galaxy Tab 10.1, we're told that the tablet is "barely larger" due to the fact the slate will have a thinner bezel with a whopping 2560 x 1600 resolution, 11.6-inch screen with a 16:10 aspect ratio," read BGR's report.

If true, the fabled spec would put Samsung ahead of Apple in the battle for fictional tablet supremacy. Prior to BGR's latest report a number of other tech site had posted similar "leaks" suggesting the iPad 3 would house its own 2048x1536 display.

Neither Apple nor Samsung has confirmed any of the information contained in the two reports and have not responded to the International Business Times UK's requests for comment. Those still undeterred by the lack of official information should check out the IBTimes' predictions page where the best of the spurious rumours have been collected.