Apple rumour: new iPad this April, iPhone this summer

Sources suggest new Apple devices will offer improved specifications and performance but will not be completely redesigned products.

According to iMore, one of the best sources for insider Apple information on the web, the latest iteration of the full-sized iPad could be out as soon as this April and could be joined by a new iPad Mini.

The fifth-generation iPad is expected to be smaller than the current iPad but this will be due to a smaller screen bezel (like that found on the iPad Mini) rather than a smaller display. If the full-sized tablet is joined by a new Mini variant it is doubtful that it will sport a high-definition Retina display: production costs for such a screen would push the retail price up by too much and could zap the device's battery, which due to the Mini's small size would be difficult to replace with a larger, more powerful version.

The iPhone 5S is expected to launch in August and, like the iPhone 4S, is expected to offer improved specifications but retain the look and feel of the existing handset. Sources say that the 5S will have a better processor and a better camera and supporting image software. The latest Android flagship phones have all sported 10-13 megapixel cameras and it would appear that Apple is following suit.

Earlier this week, KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo issued a report claiming that an iPhone 5S was coming this summer, in June rather than August, but that it would be joined by the much-rumored 'affordable' iPhone and iOS7, a new version of Apple's mobile operating system to run on its iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad devices. In the report he claims: 'We expect Apple will introduce its new iPhones and iOS7 in June, and start shipping the new iPhones (5S and low-cost model) in July. Both dates are earlier than last year's roadmap. We attribute this to: (1) an effort to avoid repeating the fatal mistake of last year of the delayed iPhone 5 launch, which gave competitors room to grab market share; and (2) the new iPhones this year are mainly designed on the basis of the current iPhone 5, which suggests development time could be reduced.'

He also believes that as well as a better processor and camera, the iPhone 5S will also feature a fingerprint scanner in its home key for biometric authentication.