Bloomberg: Apple May Also Update iPad at September Event

It’s clear that Apple’s upcoming event on September 10th will include updates to the company’s iPhone hardware and iOS software, but Bloomberg suggested Wednesday that the iPad may see an update as well. In an article about Apple opening its first Tokyo retail store since 2005, the news organization’s sources reportedly outlined Apple’s plans for next month:

The Cupertino, California-based company plans to introduce new versions of its phone and tablet at a Sept. 10 event, a person familiar with the matter has said, and the company promised “several more game changers” in the product pipeline as it tries to fend off Samsung Electronics Co. and Chinese makers selling cheaper handsets.

Apple has yet to officially acknowledge its plans for September 10th, but multiple sources with excellent track records have independently verified the company’s schedule. Until now, however, all focus has been on the iPhone, with leaks indicating that the company will release an updated “high end” iPhone 5S alongside a new lower cost iPhone 5C model, which will compete against cheaper Android handsets in both developed and emerging markets.

Rumors thus far surrounding future updates to the iPad have all pointed to a separate release later in the fall, with most speculating on an October timeframe. But with sources suggesting that this year’s iPad updates will be modest – the full-sized iPad is expected to receive a minor form factor change to match the proportions of the iPad mini, and the mini itself is not expected to get a Retina quality display – it is not inconceivable that Apple would unveil the products alongside their smartphone cousins rather than hold a separate event later for what may amount to nothing more than a spec boost. The new iPads may not ship until later in the year, but announcing them ahead of time could keep Apple’s focus for the rest of fall aimed at more exciting updates, such as new Mac hardware and potentially surprise announcements.

Update: The Loop‘s Jim Dalrymple, well connected with Apple sources, states that there will be no iPad announcements during Apple’s September event, making it likely that Bloomberg‘s mention was simply an error.