Not even a week has passed since Apple launched its fourth generation iPads, the iPad mini,and the revamped 9.7-inch iPad, and rumors have already started to surface that the company may launch a lighter and thinner version of the 9.7-inch iPad.

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Ming-Chi Kuo and analyst at KGI Securities indicates that Apple may feel pressure from Microsoft's new Surface tablet even though the revamped iPad has a several hardware enhancements; however, the fourth-generation iPad is the same weight and thickness as the third-generation model.

"Though the iPad mini is expected to be successful, we think launching the lighter, thinner 9.7-inch iPad as quickly as possible matters more for Apple strategically," reported Kuo.

The new fourth-generation iPad has the same price tag as its predecessor, and packs a new A6X processor that Apple claims doubles the speed of the system's CPU and GPU. The latest tablet also includes the 8-pin Lightning connector, enhanced Wi-Fi, and 4G LTE capabilities.

"Apple is expected to employ 'GF DITO' touchscreen technology, otherwise known as GF2, in its redesigned iPad, according to Kuo. In combination with more power-efficient chips, Apple is expected to 'dramatically lower the weight and thickness of the 9.7-inch iPad,' Kuo wrote," reported Apple Insider.

Microsoft is soon launching its Surface range of tablets, which pack high-end features and is expected to give tough competition to rival tablets in the market. Even though the iPad is one of the most popular tablets available in the market, Microsoft may still capture some of Apple's market share.

The new iPad mini, as Apple indicated, is as thin as a pencil and weighs similar to a paper pad. To retain its market share and thwart rivals like Microsoft, who are looking to capture its existing tablet market share, it may come as a surprise if Apple launches a thinner and a lighter iPad soon in the near future.

The New iPad was launched in March this year and in nearly six months Apple introduced a revamped version of the tablet. It is anybody's guess if Apple will disappoint current iPad users with the launch of a new iPad soon.

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