Analyst: iPad with Camera Due Next Spring

It’s no secret that Apple is working on the second generation iPad, and Goldman Sachs analysts, Henry King and Kevin Lu, think it’s going to include a built-in camera for FaceTime video chats and thinner body.

Both analysts claim research into parts suppliers show that the next gen iPad will still sport a 9.7-inch multitouch display, but will weigh less than the current model. It will also gain a mini USB port, although it’s unclear if the port would replace be in addition to the traditional Dock connector port found on all iPod and iOS devices.

Apple’s next gen iPad will probably include a camera

The iPad is Apple’s multimedia tablet that runs iOS and supports most iPhone-compatible apps. It includes built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and some models ship with 3G wireless data access support, too.

Mr. King and Mr. Lu say the new iPad model will be available early in the second quarter of 2011.

The rumor mill has been busy churning out reports that a 7-inch iPad is on the way, too. The most recent wave claimed the 7-inch model design is finished and ready to go, although Mr. King and Mr. Lu think differently.

While they think a 7-inch iPad is in development, they claim the “project has not yet been finalized,” and won’t ship ahead of the second generation 9.7-inch iPad.

Apple is currently trading at US$286.41, down 4.75 (-1.63%).

[Thanks to AppleInsider for the heads up.]